Kingsbridge
estuary u3a
NEWSLETTER
june 2016
COMMITTEE
CHAIRMAN
TEL: 843638
CAROLYN SCHOFIELD
[email protected]
VICE CHAIRMAN
TEL: 856829
VERNON TAYLOR
[email protected]
SECRETARY
TEL: 856956
SYLVIA GRIFFIN
[email protected]
TREASURER
TEL: 842258
LINDA COTON
[email protected]
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY
TEL: 842217
SPEAKER SECRETARY
TEL: 854559
GROUPS COORDINATOR
TEL: 581399
VISITS ORGANISER
TEL: 531562
JUDY TYLER
[email protected]
SHEILA HARRISON
[email protected]
ANTHEA McWATT
[email protected]
TONY WESTLAKE
[email protected]
PUBLICITY
TEL: 842452
ANITA DUNSTER
[email protected]
WEBSITE
TEL:852255
RODNEY STRONG
[email protected]
COMMITTEE
TEL: 853242
LIZ PLAYLE
[email protected]
TEL: 857242
JACKIE STACEY
[email protected]
NEWSLETTER EDITORS
JUDY TYLER AND LINDA COTON
WEBSITE. www.u3asite.org.uk/kingsbridgeestuary
PRINTED AND COLLATED BY JOAINE SALCOMBE CHURCH OFFICE
CHAIRMAN’S
CHAT
First I would like to thank you all for your kindness and confidence in electing me as Chairman
at the recent AGM. As I said at the time, Joyce’s outstanding four years in the post will be a
very hard act to follow, but I have had a little practice standing in during her absences in South
Africa over the last two winters, and I will do my best to live up to your expectations. I know
that you will want to join me in thanking Joyce for the enormous contribution she has made
to the U3A during her period in office, and will be glad to know that she will continue as an
enthusiastic member, and has offered continuing services and advice to your Committee.
Secondly I wholeheartedly welcome two new Committee members, Sheila Harrison and Jackie
Stacey. Sheila has volunteered to take over Jane Gray’s responsibility for finding speakers for
Friday morning meetings. Jane has done a marvellous job, for which we are all so grateful, and
hers too will be hard shoes to fill, but Sheila is already growing into the job with loads of new
ideas and enthusiasm. Jackie too is a volunteer with whom we very much look forward to
working, and you may be sure that we shall find her lots to do.
I have an ambition during my time as Chairman to get a better picture of our pattern of
membership: what has attracted you all to join the U3A, to what extent is there an overlap
between those who come to the Friday meetings and those who attend the groups, how many
groups on average do individual members attend, and so on? I have written before – without
response! - in these pages about the possibility of members’ undertaking mini research
projects, and it occurs to me that this
might be one which somebody might like
to explore. If so do have a word with me
and we will see how we can take it further.
Many of our groups are breaking up now
for the summer, so enjoy a well-earned
rest and return refreshed in the autumn
for a renewal of activities and friendships,
and don’t forget to keep an eye on the
U3A website for all our latest news.
CAROLYN
PAST CHAIRMAN - JOYCE
PRESENT CHAIRMAN - CAROLYN
VICE CHAIRMAN - VERNON
CHAIRMAN'S AGM REPORT
12 months ago I reported on the success of KEU3A; 24 months ago – the same report;
36 months ago – the same report and 48 months ago – yes, you have guessed it, the
same report was posted. So what does this tell us​? In my view it is the story of progress
– progress in the number of members; progress in the number and variety of Groups;
progress in the range of Outings; progress in the establishment of residential visits; I
could go on and on but I know that I am speaking to the converted for it is you who have
made all the success possible and your enthusiasm and desire have encouraged your
Committee to fulfil your expectations.
A brief resume of the activities in the past 12 months is possibly looked for and of course
our point of reference for this are our interesting and highly informative Newsletters
whose Editors Judy and Linda we thank at this time. Last June we travelled to Rosemoor
on a beautifully sunny day and what a treat that was and our thanks go to Tony and to
Wendy for their perfect organisation. The visit to Salisbury was an exciting new venture
in that it was our first taste of a residential visit this is the forerunner of many more
I am sure. And who could ever forget the joy of the singing of our Group who performed
with such professionalism at the concert in West Charleton Vilage Hall – there is real
talent in this Group and we can look forward to further forays into the realms of
entertainment. The French Language Group entertained an English Language Group
from Bordeaux and we were thrilled to join in the festivities especially the memorable
trip on the Rivermaid – check out the poem recording the event and contained in the
Autumn newsletter and composed by our U3A Poet Laureate Anita. Church Visits were
both educational and social outings; walks were enjoyed in all weathers and over some
challenging terrain; music was appreciated and antiques were studied and marvelled
at; bridge was challenged; French, Italian and Spanish were studied, art was a relaxing
time; and so forth throughout the 30 Groups so ably overseen by Anthea our Groups
Co-ordinator.
Our finances are healthy and our thanks go to Linda; our membership is ably controlled
by Judy; technical matters are the province of Vernon; speakers have been sourced
with great success by Jane; publicity has been handled by Anita with style; Sylvia, our
Secretary has been a constant source of expert advice and clear records; Liz has at all
times been an enthusiastic member of Committee which brings me to Carolyn who has
filled the role of Vice-chairman so completely. One name has not yet been mentioned
– Rodney Strong has kept the web-site up to date at all times and we thank him for the
professionalism of this – it is without doubt one of the best U3A web-sites and I
recommend you to visit it frequently.
And so I can sum up the past year as one of growth and achievement – you, the
members, have done this – may we continue to flourish!
JOYCE DRUMMOND
MONTHLY MEETINGS 10AM AT THE
METHODIST CHURCH KINGSBRIDGE
23�� SEPTEMBER - OPEN MEETING
28�� OCTOBER - TONY PORTER
"WHATEVER NEXT"
When Tony Porter and his wife B sold Burgh Island in 2001 after 16 years of constant
restoration and the re-establishment of the famous Art Deco hotel, he wrote a book
entitled "the Great White Palace". It tells the story of how they managed to buy the
Island and the seemingly impossible problems they overcame. As sales crept up to nearly
24,000, more and more readers began to ask Tony what he did during the rest of his life.
Eventually he sat down to answer that question.
In his latest book "Whatever Next?" it describes his seven amazing careers, from being
commissioned into the army to selling dye in Nigeria, from Biba to London Fashion Week,
from Burgh Island to Classic Car Shows. A fascinating talk.
25�� NOVEMBER - ALAN PRINCE
“FROM SUB-MARINER TO MASTER THATCHER “
Following a 10 year 'short service' commission in the Royal Navy, Alan was apprenticed to
George Dray of Lustleigh for a 2 year apprenticeship in thatching. George continued to
mentor him for the next two years until Alan was elected a full member of the Devon and
Cornwall Master Thatchers Association in 1978. Alan practiced in his own right, teaching
a total of four apprentices. His last apprentice, Lars Blackwell, became his son-in-law
(after undergoing rigorous training), eventually taking over the business in 2014 when
Alan retired.
9th DECEMBER CHRISTMAS LUNCH AT THE THURLESTONE HOTEL
See details at back of newsletter
Among others in 2017, we have Andrew Thompson of Tavistock,
Archeologist and Historian with 1000 years of the history of Tavistock
with special interest for our History Group, Church Visit Group and
Tony Westlake's visit Group. In addition there is Nick Townsend's talk
about his childhood spent in Tanzania. Awaiting to be firmed up we have
an exciting list of potential Guest Speakers.
CHURCH VISITS
TUESDAY 13th SEPTEMBER. 10.30 am St Petrox Church
Dartmouth at the mouth of the river by the castle. Another grade 1
listed church pre-dating the Norman Conquest. Coffee should be
available at the small cafe by the castle. We will then go back to
St Clement's, the mother church of Dartmouth, which is at the top of the hill
opposite the Naval College. Grade 1 listed and the site of older churches going
back to Saxon times. Lunch at The Sportman's Arms Inn on the main road.
TUESDAY 11th OCTOBER St Mary the Virgin, Denbury 11am, then onto East
Ogwell St Bartholomew's. We will arrange a lunch venue later.
TUESDAY 8th NOVEMBER After numerous requests we have a return visit to
the Synagogue in Plymouth city centre. I will again arrange lunch at Bistro Pierre
in the Royal William Yard Stonehouse Plymouth.
Contact: David Chubb Tel: 856386 email: [email protected]
David has the greatest knack for finding significant Churches, packed with extraordinary
history and in villages that some of us had only heard of and certainly never visited. Remote,
yes,but in the past have played a powerful part in local life. Many years, hundreds, through
wars, Henry V111, Victorian changes. Right under our noses but unknown until David plans
a visit. The visit to Kingston and Ringmore was no exception. Two quite different Churches,
small Ringmore - I think you could say charming, and much larger Kingston, so entirely
different and imposing. David's knack comes from diligent research and homework
providing us with the history and tiny features (e.g. the squint window) that we would surely
miss otherwise, this along with his finding a very good venue for lunch. The Pickwick at St
Anne's Chapel, catering for about twenty-five of us, was very good indeed. .
We always knew that OTTERY ST MARY'S was
outside of our normal travel area but we also knew
that that this was somewhere rather special. It was
this and more. Twenty of our members were made
very welcome by the Church hospitality team.
Coffee and biscuits, followed by an hour and a
quarter guided tour. The church, based on the
cathedral at Exeter, but half the size. Built by
Bishop Grandisson in 1337. Buildings don't come better than this. Largely
unaltered and still in magnificent condition As two of our folks said to me a real
"wow" factor. If anyone is in the area do put it on your list of places to go.
DAVID
WALKS WITH PUB LUNCH
Our walks start at 10.30am, meeting at a pub or cafe
where we have lunch when we finish. We walk for about
two and a half hours and for up to 5 miles.
Leader: Andy Coton Tel:842258 email [email protected]
27th SEPTEMBER - Devonport, Plymouth
25th OCTOBER
- Bantham
2nd NOVEMBER - Frogmore
December - Christmas walk and a New Year walk in early January
2017
VISITS
TUESDAY SEP 27th DEVONPORT
We have been asked to organise another walk exploring
Devonport. We will do this in conjunction with the
walking group, meeting at 11.00am venue t.b.a. This will
be a gentle walk morning and afternoon with lunch
venue also t.b.a.
TUESDAY OCT 4th 3 ELLIOT TERRACE, PLYMOUTH
11.00am visit to 3 Elliot Terrace, the home of the late Lady Astor.
Please book early as there is an opportunity for a second group as numbers
are limited to 15 per visit. £5.25 per person
TUESDAY NOV 8th KENTS CAVERN
We visit Kents Cavern for an evening performance of Romeo and Juliet. We
will organise transport dependent on numbers. Performance cost is £16,
transport extra.
email: [email protected]
TONY WILL UPDATE THE WEBSITE AS THE VISITS DEVELOP
& WOULD LOVE IDEAS AND SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE
OUTINGS AND VISITS. PLEASE CONTACT HIM
WEBSITE
www.u3asite.org.uk/kingsbridgeestuary
I have been quite busy in recent months with regular updates to many
group pages. Geology and Church Visits are two of the active visiting
groups while Horse Racing sees great activity going on in the background.
Do contact Mervyn if you would like a day out learning more about racing. I should soon
have a little less to do for a while as most groups are starting their summer break.
It is encouraging to see new groups being organised – we now have 33 in operation and
there are others in prospect. So there is even more for you to consider joining and
helping with in line with the fundamental principles of the U3A. The website is an easy
way to keep up-to-date. Please use it. -Rodney Strong ([email protected])
MEMBERSHIP
Kingsbridge Estuary U3A is officially 5 years old! In May 2011,
60 people attended a ‘feasibility’ meeting and from amongst
them, a ‘steering committee’ was chosen. From such small beginnings, just like
‘Topsy’ our thriving organisation has ‘just growed!’ Of that first committee, we
are lucky enough to have 4 members with their hands still on the collective
tiller, such is their dedication. From that initial 60 we now have a membership
of around 400. If ever we all needed to meet together even Malborough Village
Hall would struggle to accommodate us!
In the not too distant future we are hoping to move the Membership to a new
system, ‘THE BEACON’ this should help to simplify the work and also allow
Group Leaders to access the information they require; eventually it will also
accommodate our accounting system.
IMPORTANT
ATTACHED TO THIS NEWSLETTER IS YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD WITH
YOUR UNIQUE NUMBER. WHEN THE NEW SYSTEM IS IN PLACE THIS
NUMBER HELPS TO IDENTIFY YOU AND IS ALSO PROOF OF BEING A
CURRENT MEMBER.
KEEP IT SAFE !
GROUP ACTIVITIES
Another AGM has seen the end of a busy year for all our group
activities and many of the groups now take a break over the
summer for activities of a different kind with family and
friends. September will see the start of another U3A year of
group activities some of which will be new.
Fun for Flowers will start in September under the leadership
of Helen Curtis, and it is hoped an informal group with an
interest in Natural History will also be able to meet, though at
present this is in its infancy! Many of you expressed interest in a Petanque group, and on
your behalf I have been discussing with the local Council the refurbishment of the playing
surface of the court in the Recreation Ground. Once this has been completed I hope the
group will be able to start to play together during the summer.
The monthly meeting in September is always a chance for U3A members, and nonmembers to come along and meet the group organisers (leaders) and see what a wide
range of activities we have to offer at Kingsbridge U3A. This year is no exception, so
please come and wherever possible bring a friend to see what is on offer and enjoy a
coffee or tea with friends. Following the meeting this year the group organisers (leaders)
will come together for lunch and a workshop to consider the proposals from the Regional
workshop.
On November 18��, Kingsbridge U3A will be holding an Evening of Entertainment with a
Pasty Supper at West Charleton Village Hall. This will be provided by members, for
members and we hope you will all support this fun evening meeting with friends over
supper, and being entertained by a plethora of talented U3A members! Tickets for the
supper will be £5, to include pasty (or vegetarian option) plus coffee and cake.
Kingsbridge U3A is a vibrant and friendly organisation that provides its members with as
much or as little as they want to enjoy. However this is only possible by the continued
support of those who offer to 'lead' our activity groups and work behind the scenes on the
committee or in arranging tea and coffee at our monthly meetings. If you want to
contribute in whatever small way to the continued success of U3A please get in touch.
New ideas are welcome (even if you do not feel you can take on any organisation) but
there is always support for anyone willing to try. Just being involved is satisfying and
often leads to the making of new friends.
Thank you to all of you who continue to help provide this wide range of group
activities, and for all of you who continue to enjoy them.
Anthea McWatt, Group Co-ordinator
U3A REGIONAL WORKSHOP
As the Group Co-ordinator for our U3A I was asked by the Committee
to attend a Regional workshop in Exeter, run by the National U3A,
which focused on the development of group activities and different
ways in which to establish and 'lead' these activities. I often think that the use of the word
'leader' often deters members from actually suggesting new activities (as they do not want
to lead them), or in offering to help in co-ordinating the group activities, because of the
perceived responsibility. Many activities do not need a 'leader' as such, but simply someone
willing to be the 'conduit' by which information is passed to and fro between those involved
with that activity. Quite a lot of emphasis at this workshop was placed on providing a 'mix
and match' of learning styles, with group members arranging at least one planning meeting
a year in order to discuss ways to move forward. This is really important if your group is to
flourish. However, probably the most important factor in any group activity is that everyone
is involved, and enjoying their time undertaking their activity within a group of like-minded
people. ANTHEA
ANTIQUES
We are now well into our Antiques Road Trip season. Our first trip was to
Topsham where we visited the Quay Antiques Centre. With 70 dealers on
three floors there was a lot of browsing and some purchasing. Some of us also visited the
Topsham Museum which is housed in late 17th century buildings. As well as wonderful
exhibits of the maritime history there are furnished period rooms containing antiques.
Topsham has a lot to offer for a day out. The next trip was to Ashburton's many antiques
shops. I have been told it was a successful trip. Our final trip will be to the Plymouth Museum.
As the museum is closing at the end of the summer until 2020 we can view the special
exhibitions that are on at the moment. The good news is that a lot of the Cookworthy
porcelain will be exhibited in the Cookworthy Museum next year. RACHEL TEL. 560571
MONDAY BOOK CLUB
Over the past 5 years our section of the book club has read at least 45/50
books. We are organised by Jan Cadman and meet once a month to have a
lively discussion about the current book. It's surprising how differing our perceptions and
criticisms can be, occasionally one wonders if we've all read the same book! Very interesting.
We have read current fiction, historical fiction, biographies, autobiographies and the classics
SALLY WEBB.
If anyone feels inclined to join us we do have a space available , contact JAN. TEL: 559374
email. [email protected]
FRENCH
The group continues to progress listening, reading and writing, using
the resource book: Echo A2. By the end of this year, all members will
be able to declare with pride that they are up to the B1 level of the
European Framework for languages, ie: independent user of a foreign language
● Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly
encountered in work, school, leisure, etc
● Can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where the
language is spoken.
● Can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.
● Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give
reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.
● Which is very impressive!
We enjoyed a French-themed New Year's lunch at the Crabshell in January and shall
celebrate Bastille Day on July 14th, comme il se doit.
We have also maintained our link with the group from Bordeaux and are planning another
exchange to take place in 2017. Several members have also organised private visits with
great success this year. The main objective of the group is to have fun while learning - I
hope that we are achieving this! JANE STURDEE TEL. 852735 -EMAIL. [email protected]
FRENCH BEGINNERS
This group, new in 2016, meets at 2pm on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month
at a private house in Salcombe. The group is already full but we have a waiting
list.
BARBARA TEL. 842901 Email [email protected]
FRENCH CULTURE
Having a break from subjects to discuss, we moved on to
read and talk about short stories by famous authors such
as Guy de Maupassant and Alphonse Daudet. We included
Jean de la Fontaine who wrote his poems in the vein of
Aesops Fables with delightful illustrations. New members have made a good contribution
to the group and the stalwarts continue to support me, to my delight. We did not go to France
for a short holiday this year, but the Bordelais experience should suffice in the future. DAWN
SPANISH
Spanish Intermediate Classes take place every other Tuesday morning
10am–12noon at a private house in Kingsbridge. There are currently 5
members, most of whom started in September 2011. All had some
knowledge of Spanish to start with, and they are building well on that.
If you have already done some Spanish, please get in touch!
The Spanish Intermediate Group are learning conversational Spanish, but you cannot
converse without vocabulary and quite a lot of grammar, especially verbs. We have
always done a lot of oral work. However, the class has now got a pretty good grasp of
the grammar, and the accent is now firmly on speaking and listening. We tend to do a
bit of grammar for the first hour, then try and speak Spanish as much as we can in the
second hour.
For the Intermediate classes, please contact MICHAEL on 852735, or at
[email protected] for further details.
BEGINNERS SPANISH
This class was set up in January of this year and takes place once a fortnight between
10.00am and 12.00 noon in West Charleton. There proved to be a great interest in
learning Spanish in the area for people with little knowledge of the language. Classes
started with the basics and people have quickly moved on to improve their reading
and writing skills.
While understanding that most people joined the class wanting to go to Spain and speak
the language it is important for them to learn the grammar and acquire a large vocabulary
base. Lessons are built around attempting to cover all these areas while making them
interesting and fun.
At the moment the Beginners Spanish class is full but if anyone wants more information
they can contact JANE on 531885 or email her on [email protected]
ITALIAN
The Italian group for absolute beginners meets every Monday 9.30
- 11.30 at The Crabshell in Kingsbridge.
We are enjoying learning Italian with Lesley in a very fun way.
We are working our way through a book called BUONGIORNO ITALIA
Listening to the pronunciation on an accompanying cd.
We have all made new friends and learnt a lot in the short time since starting.
CONTACT LESLEY FERGUSON TEL: 560578 email: [email protected]
GREEK MYTHOLOGY
We have been reading plays by Sophocles and Euripides based on
alternative versions to the mainstream Homeric Cycle myths of the
Judgement of Paris, the abduction of Helen (the face that launched a
thousand ships), the Trojan War, and the final fall of Troy. The
background story is that Paris, a prince of Troy, found himself in the
unenviable position of judging a beauty contest between three jealous
goddesses, Hera, Athene and Aphrodite. Olympian politics being
somewhat venal they all offered him bribes, with the result that he
awarded the prize to Aphrodite (appropriately Goddess of Love), who promised him the hand of
the most beautiful woman in the world, the said Helen, already the wife of a petty Greek king,
Menelaus, whose rival suitors had sworn to defend his marriage. So when Paris whisks Helen off
to Troy while Menelaus isn’t looking, the whole Greek nobility is mobilised under the leadership
of M’s brother, Agamemnon, King of Mycenae. When Agamemnon returns home 10 years later,
after successfully annihilating Troy and liberating Helen, he is instantly and horribly murdered by
his wife Clytemnestra (sister to Helen) and her lover Aegisthus. Her daughter Electra and son
Orestes later carry out terrible revenge on the two of them.
And so to the peripheral versions of the main events. We read Sophocles’ Philoctetes, where one
of the Greek heroes suffering from a particularly stinky wound, has to be enticed from the desert
island on which he has been marooned, because his bow and arrows are the only weapon which
can prevail against Troy; and Sophocles’ Ajax, which recounts the dramatic suicide of the
powerful hero Ajax, after the dead Achilles’ armour was awarded to Odysseus rather than
himself. Odysseus is very much the villain of both these dramas. Then we read two versions of
the revenge of Electra and Orestes, one by Sophocles and one by Euripides, both titled Electra,
both dealing with their matricide. And finally we went back again in time, first to an
extraordinary version of the abduction of Helen (Euripides) in which the goddess Hera arranges
for Paris to take a kind of cardboard cut-out of her to Troy, while the real Helen, chaste as driven
snow, sojourns in Egypt until Menelaus comes to claim her; and then to Aulis, where the
becalming of the Greek fleet, on its way to Troy, can only be rectified by the sacrifice of
Agamemnon’s noble daughter Iphigenaia, whom he lures thither with a promise of marriage to
the hero Achilles. It has a (sort of) happy ending but I have to admit to shedding the odd tear
on the way there.
We have had great fun exploring our shifting sympathies with the various characters and
increasingly making connections between these very slippery myths. From here we plan to
address the quite separate story of Theseus, an early king of Athens (he of the labyrinth and the
Minotaur), and his son Hippolytus, with whom the latter’s stepmother falls fatally in love. These
appear in Euripides’ Hippolytus, which we shall read next, as well as fleetingly in his Suppliant
Women and Heracles, so we may read those as well, before finding Theseus also in Sophocles’
Oedipus at Colonus, which will conveniently lead us into the cycle of plays set in ancient Thebes,
with its even more terrible family relationships! We have now broken off for the summer and
will start again on Tuesday 13�� September. If anyone would like to join us then, I would
recommend to them, as well as to the existing group, Mary Renault’s excellent novels about
Theseus: The King Must Die and The Bull From the Sea, as light reading over the summer.
CAROLYN
SINGING FOR PLEASURE
The highlight of our year was our November concert, hosted by the
U3A and held in West Charleton Village Hall The programme included entertainment from
poetry written and spoken by U3A members to a musical duet played by Nicola New and her
friend and colleague Melanie. The Singing for Pleasure Group sang their hearts out with
some solo, duet and quartet acts to add variety. The concert was a sell out and raised
approximately £750 for the St Mary’s West Charleton Church Fund. A huge thank you must
go to Anna Westlake for her slaving over a hot stove for the catering – which was a great
success.
In December we sang again at the U3A Christmas party, having put together some more
unusual seasonal songs to entertain the revelers.
As soon as the New Year arrived we were back to work to learn new pieces for the 2016
November concert, which promises to be bigger’n’better than the last one!
The Singing for Pleasure Group is about 20 strong and we always welcome new members.
The Group is divided into the traditional four parts and we’re getting quite good at
harmonising. However, don’t let that put you off if you are new to singing, we have come to
the conclusion that anyone can sing in a group and the sound, if directed well, will be good.
We have several members who hadn’t sung a note until they joined us who now sing out
confidently – and they are still here!
Joan Nicholas, our director, has been with us for four years, together with Nicola New our
piano accompanist. We are indebted to them for their help, expertise and infinite patience
as we all work hard together. Sadly Joan is to leave us this summer; she has worked tirelessly
both at the meetings and probably more so in her own time so that we give a polished
performance. As a group we will miss her for her hard work, good humour and friendship,
but we must let her go so that she can spend more time with her family.
She will leave a huge gap for us, which we are keen to fill as best we can. If anyone out there
knows of someone with the musical acumen to lead a group of amateur to middling songsters,
someone who has a strong will but a good sense of humour, then we can guarantee him or
her a good time! DEBBIE
Friday mornings and West Charleton Village Hall comes alive with the sounds of music, heavy
breathing, advice on tummy tucks, and four part harmony ! Let me explain: For four years
now our Singing for Pleasure Group has met to sing and have fun, supported, tutored, and
conducted by the lovely Joan Nicholas.
No sooner are we in the hall when we hear the cry, ‘Now five big good ones everyone - and
no cheating.’ Well let your imagination go wild with this one! We raise our hands in the air,
take a deep breath then slowly exhale. Many are coughing and spluttering at the same time
(always a good sign we are told by Joan.) Then it’s on to the scales, escorted by the well- used
phrase, ‘Tuck your tummies in.’ By this time some of us are exhausted before any singing
starts.
But we all love it really, and we all appreciate the professionalism that Joan brings to our group.
For four years she has brought enthusiasm, encouragement, great patience, fun and often
frustration to our Friday mornings. She has taken us to two U3A Extravaganzas, prepared us
to perform at the Christmas dinners and last year helped us to a standard where we could
perform to 100 + people to raise funds for St Mary’s Church West Charleton. Joan is now
standing down from the group after four years and we would all like to say a very big thank
you… we shall miss her so much. Whoever takes over this group, just be aware that we like to
start the mornings with five big good ones! HELEN
____________________________
SONG FOR JOAN (tune Hallelujah by Cohen)
Joan we do appreciate, to teach us well you tell us straight.
Four years now our group you’ve been commanding
Sopranos if you really try,
You’ll hit that note it’s not that high.
Singing for Pleasure really is demanding!
Is demanding, is demanding, is demanding, is demanding
You always make us do our best. Until it’s right you will not rest.
How you do it Joan is quite perplexing
Tenors listen to your CD.
That part just doesn’t sound right to me.
Singing for Pleasure is always really stretching!
Really stretching, Really stretching, Really stretching, Really stretching.
Joan we think you always knew of all the things that we could do.
Four part songs you always were intending.
Basses you must watch your timing.
Alto’s sing or are you miming?
Singing for Pleasure really is extending!
Is extending, Is extending, Is extending, Is extending.
You want us all to do our best. Until we do you will not rest.
How you do it Joan is quite intriguing.
You frown and smile, praise and cajole.
You make us sing with heart and soul.
Singing for Pleasure really is fatiguing!
Is fatiguing, Is fatiguing, Is fatiguing, Is fatiguing.
We’d really like to thank you Joan.
We couldn’t have done it on our own.
We appreciate you are a treasure.
We’ve made good friends. We’ve had such fun.
So heartfelt thanks from everyone.
Singing for Pleasure really is a pleasure!
WALK AND PUB LUNCH
Even the dreadful weather at the start of this year could
not deter Andy and his happy band of walkers. As always
he had planned a variety of walks ,taking in the best
features Devon has to offer, ending in a pub for a
convivial lunch. The year started with a coastal walk
from East Prawle, even though we had to watch our feet
it was wonderful to be in the fresh air, with good
company and of course the coast was stunning.
February saw us stomping through the mud alongside
the river Avon; even in the summer the start of this walk
is muddy. The beauty of the river flowing through the woods makes up for everything
and there's a chance to see the flash of blue which is the Kingfisher which lives by the
bridge. Avoiding fallen trees and branches we walked
to Loddiswell and then across the fields to Avon Mill for
lunch.
The scheduled walk for March was delayed by 2 days as
the rain did its worst, so Andy led a depleted group for
a coastal path walk from Ringmore. It was with the
admonition"Be careful near the cliff edge!!!" they set
off! Happily everybody returned in one piece. With the
hedgerows the best they have been for years we went
to Dartmouth to walk
from the Castle to
Gallants Bower through the bluebell woods. The setting
is incredible, the sea and Dart estuary seen through a
mist of blue will stay in the minds eye forever.
Now the weather is improving Andy planned a slightly
longer walk over the Moor including Doctor Blackwells
Drive. Realising there are some of us for whom the extra
mile and a half would be too much Andy found a way,
led by Linda, to get us back to the pub whilst the rest
soldiered on. This was a stunning walk, the carriageway
built for the doctors wife a hundred years ago made a
nice easy walk so we were able to take in the view of the different Tors and the river
rushing below. It was on this walk where a beautiful horse decided to befriend us , he
was sure we had something nice in our knapsacks!! Andy meticulously plans all the walks,
knows all the best viewpoints and we always end with a lovely chatty lunch. Our thanks
must go to him and Linda for making the fourth Tuesday in the month an absolute joy.
ANNE SEYMOUR
GARDEN APPRECIATION
We visit a different garden or nursery each month (apart
from August) between February and November. Where
possible, we have a guided tour or talk from the owner or
head gardener. In December and January we meet in the
Crabshell to review the previous year and plan the
following year as well as to hear a speaker. So far this year
we have visited Little Cumbre in Exeter to see their
amazing snowdrop collection, Mount Edgcumbe Country
Park to learn about their huge Camellia collection,
Trematon Castle Gardens near Saltash to see their garden
restoration work in an enchanting setting (see photo
attached) and The Lost Gardens of Heligan for a tour of their Northern Gardens, the latter
being a combined trip for the wider U3A membership, using a coach organised by Tony
Westlake. Normally around 20-25 of us organise ourselves into carloads. Where possible
we have lunch at the garden or in a local hostelry after our morning visits to reflect on the
glories we have seen and the information we have gleaned during our talks and tours. The
day of the visit varies each month depending on the opening times of the garden, availability
of tour guides and the best time for seeing particular plants of interest. Future visits include
Heathercombe Gardens near Bovey Tracey, Ash Tree Farm near Dartmouth, Knightshayes
near Tiverton, the Forest Garden at Dartington and Stone Lane Gardens near Chagford.
The group is still full with 48 members and a waiting list of 11. Since most group visits are
for a maximum of 15 –25 people depending on the tour guide, regretfully, we are unable to
take any more people on to the group at the moment.”
WENDY Tel:852529 email: [email protected]
HEATHERCOMBE GARDENS - 1000FEET UP ON DARTMOOR
This was the latest garden visit
The Heathercombe estate is run by the Claude and Margaret Pike Woodlands
Trust, a registered charity, whose purpose is to conserve the special environment
of Heathercombe. This includes woodland gardens, an arboretum, South
Heathercombe and extensive forestry plantations.
The High Heathercombe Centre, adjoining the open moor and surrounding
woodlands, is run on a charitable basis by the High Heathercombe Trust, offering
a wide range of people access to experience the beautiful Dartmoor landscape.
TREMATON GARDENS
SALTASH
What a gem the garden appreciation group visited this spring. The location is stunning
and reflected the social history of the area. The site of Trematon Castle, near Saltash ,
has belonged to the Duke of Cornwall since shortly after the Norman conquest and is a
perfect miniature Norman castle. John Betjeman wrote " One of the most superb views
of Cornwall , a Brunel stone viaduct crossing ,a foreground creek , the Lynter and Tamar
estuaries beyond and the wooded slopes of Anthony ". In contrast the once rolling
countryside on the left hand side is now dotted with housing developments sprawling out
from Plymouth. There is so much for a visitor to explore both in horticulture and
architecture.
Although only a small castle it has nine acres and just half an acre of cultivated garden.
Much of it is steep slopes and woodland. Isabel and Julian Bannerman , the garden
designers and builders bought Trematon's lease in January 2012. The site offered a
tremendous challenge but after 20 years of taking on diverse gardening projects from
high-profile clients, including the Prince of Wales , the Bannermans are well equipped.
The constraints of archaeology meant that they could hardly dig anywhere .Topsoil ( 200
tons ) had to be imported to make the terraces and flower beds around the Regency
house.
The Bannermans design is simple but strong. The luxurious herbaceous borders are
planted with a mixture of Thirties and Fifties scented big impact planting. The sea facing
border is planted with Cornish and seaside plants, rosemary, myrtle, cistus, pinks, crinums
and agapanthus. I would like to return in July to see this tapestry in bloom.
The keep sits on 100ft high banks of meadow plants, primroses, bluebells (English) and
wild flowers. All were in flower during our visit. With trepidation we climbed up the stone
steps of the decayed keep to be rewarded with the glorious view . The Motte is a riot of
wild flowers carpeted with cowslips and primroses, bluebells, spangled with campion and
purple orchids. The stone ruins give an air of mystery and faded grandeur.
There is a mixed woodland with dogwood and magnolia, tulip tree, foxglove tree,
evergreen oaks and oaks. Many Cornish favourites Camelias, Rhododendron, Euchryphia,
Carpenteria, Fuchsia, Mimosa and Cornus thrive in the gardens.
There is a modern Indian garden with a swimming pool and an open-sided loggia. Wooden
Indian panels hang in the Loggia and with the large pots of canna lilies,palms and
cordylines an exotic and tropical feel is given.
Finally, there is a double walled garden, some distance from the house - yet another
challenge of epic proportions.
The garden is very much a work in progress but the fascinating grouping of history,
architecture, landscape and plants give the visitor a rewarding experience.
LINDSEY FLETCHER
VISIT TO MOUNT EDGCUMBE IN
MARCH
We left Kingsbridge while there was still a misty haze over the
estuary and drove towards Plymouth, with a promise of sunshine
to come. We travelled over the Tamar Bridge, which is one of the
three easy ways to reach Mount Edgcumbe. (The other two
routes are the Torpoint ferry, or the Cremyll foot -ferry.)
Continuing through the east Cornwall countryside, we passed
daffodil fields,some of them still in flower and many of the
tributories of the Tamar River which were by then on our left and Whitsands Bay and the sea beyond
on our right. The sun came out on our arrival, leaving just a little chill in the air.
Our first stop was for coffee and cake in the Stable Cafe, which remains true to its name, with many
of the original features remaining.
Mount Edgcumbe has the national collection of camellias. Our guide was Lee, the Head Gardener,
who has worked there for the last 24 years. He was an excellent and witty host, keeping us
entertained for 2 hours. He started his talk by introducing us to the history of the place.
It was first started as a Deer Park in 1515, and the house was completed in 1550. A large wing of
the house was destroyed in World War 2. The Estate is now jointly owned by Plymouth City Council
and Cornwall County Council. It receives grants at the moment to help towards the costs, but by
next year it will be totally self funding.
We left the cosy cobbled courtyard with its shops and cafe to make our way uphill to the start of our
walk. The camellia collection is well sign posted and though there is an incline it is an easy terrain.
Lee was a fountain of information and showed us in detail the many varieties of this beautiful flower.
They come in 6 main forms, from double to single, peony to rose. He recommended that we bought
the Williams II variety to suit our area and climate. On one bush we were shown two differently
coloured flowers, growing side by side. You could not help yourself falling in love with these
magnificent and exquisite flowers. Your gardens at home could be full of flowering camellias from
early October to May the following year.
A trip to Mount Edgcumbe is recommended to all. As you go past the camellias the walk opens out
to panoramic views of Plymouth Sound and the surrounding area. A clear view of the west side of
Drakes Island can also be seen. At this stage the walk takes a turn down hill to the left towards the
amphitheatre, giving you a view of the duck pond and the Tamar River. There was much more for
us to see and explore, but our guided tour was nearly at a close, so that remains for another trip.
Our final treat with Lee was a peep in the camellia poly tunnel, where we were able to purchase
plants at a bargain price of £5 each.
Lunch followed, and many of us found it warm enough to eat outside in the courtyard; a first for
2016. It was soon time to return home. Our lasting thoughts were that a return visit would not be
long. and we know it would be a memorable and scenic outing for ourselves and our friends.
MERYL
GROUP
MEETING DAY
LEADER/CONTACT
ANTIQUES
3rd THURSDAY PM
MONTHLY
RACHEL 560571
BOOK CLUB 1
3rd THURSDAY PM
MONTHLY
CHRIS 852160
[email protected]
BOOK CLUB 2
1st MONDAY PM
MONTHLY
JAN 559374
[email protected]
BRIDGE
FRIDAY PM WEEKLY
STEVE 531252
[email protected]
CLASSICAL MUSIC
4th MONDAY PM
MONTHLY
ODETTE 560265
[email protected]
CHURCH VISITS
2nd TUESDAY MONTHLY DAVID 856386
[email protected]
CRYPTIC
CROSSWORDS
1st&3rd THURSDAY AM
ANDY 581164
[email protected]
FRENCH LANGUAGE
THURSDAY AM
FORTNIGHTLY
JANE 852735
[email protected]
FRENCH BEGINNERS
SEE WEBSITE
BARBARA 842901
[email protected]
FRENCH CULTURE
1st & 3rd THURSDAY
DAWN 844046
[email protected]
FUN WITH FLOWERS
1st TUESDAY PM
HELEN 531191
[email protected]
ASTRONOMY
GARDEN
APPRECIATION
VARIABLE DATES
WENDY 852529
[email protected]
GEOLOGY
2nd THURSDAY AM
MONTHLY
CHRIS 531460
[email protected]
GERMAN
WEDNESDAY AM
FORTNIGHTLY
JANE 852784
[email protected]
GROUP
MEETING DAY
LEADER/CONTACT
GREEK MYTHOLOGY
2nd & 4th TUESDAY
CAROLYN 843638
[email protected]
ITALIAN FOR BEGINNERS
MONDAYS
LESLEY 56057
WEEKLY 9.30-11.30 [email protected]
LOCAL HISTORY
3rd WEDNESDAY
CELIA (temp) 852255
[email protected]
LUNCH BUNCH
FRIDAY PM
MONTHLY
EVE 856849
[email protected]
MAH JONG
1st & 3rd MONDAY
ELIZABETH 580826
[email protected]
PAINTING
WEDNESDAY PM
FORTNIGHTLY
ANNE 856667
[email protected]
PHILOSOPHY
TUESDAY PM
FORTNIGHTLY
ANNE 531252
[email protected]
PLAY READING
THURSDAY AM
RASPBERRY PI
SEE WEBSITE
EMMA 853900 OR CAROL 562342
[email protected]
POETRY APPRECIATION
WEDNESDAY AM
MONTHLY
NANCY 852087
[email protected]
SHORT MAT BOWLS
SATURDAY AM
TONY 531562
[email protected]
SINGING FOR PLEASURE
FRIDAY AM
TONY 531562
[email protected]
SPANISH
SPANISH FOR BEGINNERS
TUESDAY AM
WEEKLY
SEE WEBSITE
MICHEAL 852735
[email protected]
JANE
[email protected]
STRETCH AND TONE
THURSDAY PM
WEEKLY
ANTHEA 581399
[email protected]
WALK / PUB LUNCH
4th TUESDAY
MONTHLY
ANDY 842258
[email protected]
WINE APPRECIATION
4th THURSDAY PM
TONY 531562
[email protected]
KINGSBRIDGE IN BLOOM
‘What You Don’t Know About Kingsbridge In
Bloom!’
Gill is yet another of our members, and it was apt that, during the week of Chelsea
Flower Show, she was able to tell us more about our own award-winning ‘Kingsbridge in Bloom’
group of volunteers, and how they have transformed our town’s environment.
The evidence of their presence in the town is everywhere and their displays lift the spirits!
The group was formed in 2007, by 3 ‘garden-minded’ people who had an idea and built on it. Every
journey starts with the first step!
The Group motto is ‘Growing Pride in our Town’ and by so doing, they have given pride
us in it
too!
All volunteers are welcome - no experience, green-fingers or expertise is necessary. Just ask any of
the team who are usually to be found on the Quay on Wednesday mornings, digging, weeding or
planting, in their distinctive blue shirts.
Under the auspices of the Royal Horticultural Society’s ‘Its Your Town’ initiative, The Best Street;
Pub; School; Church and Shop can all have a hand in improving their surroundings. There are
projects for local people to get involved with like the annual Garden Competition with categories for
Patios, Hanging Baskets, Window Boxes, as well as Gardens.
We were encouraged to take an entry form as the closing date for this year was not until June 6th!
From their 1st tentative entry in 2008, they have achieved prestigious awards and have won ‘Gold’
every year since 2010.
The Judges are around during much of July so Gill and her fellow team members will be extra busy.
They are very keen on ecology and are now building their own compost bins and ‘Bee’ homes. The
Beavers, Brownies and Cubs (celebrating their centenary as an organisation this year) are all
encouraged to take some part. The next generation of gardeners are needed to keep this initiative
going. The Hanging Baskets in Fore Street, which herald the summer, have to be kept watered so
more help is welcomed. They have their own water bowser but it has to be manned!
Fund raising is obviously important and a £2 monthly draw is in operation. Quizzes, plant sales and
Sponsorships from various business’s and societies, all help with the cost of funding this project,
where not a penny is wasted nor a plant thrown away.
Gill’s talk was accompanied throughout, by ‘before and after’ photographs, glimpses of colourful
display’s and art projects within the planting.
This just went to prove that Gill’s remit within KIB, of ‘Publicity and Promotion’ could hardly be in safer
or more competent hands. ANITA DUNSTER
So far this year, we have had talks from the Make-up Artist for ‘The Coroner’ (now filming the
2nd series locally); the resident Beekeeper of Buckfast Abbey; the assistant Curator of Kew
Gardens and in April, one of our own members Barbara Butcher spoke to us on the life and work
of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Such was her enthusiasm for her subject that around 30 members
of her audience voted to try to arrange a trip to Glasgow to visit additional work
of this eminent architect and designer of stained glass and furniture.
If a trip to Glasgow appeals to you contact Tony for more details,
VISIT TO LITTLE CUMBRE FEBRUARY
This visit was quite special as it would be the last year
that Margaret Lloyd, a retired doctor would be opening
her garden to the public as part of the National Gardens
Scheme. She and her husband, John, have collected
and cultivated a wide range of snowdrops which have
delighted the many hundreds of people who have
visited this garden in Exeter, tucked away on a hilltop
overlooking the Exe valley. Margaret and her husband
moved from their home in Stoke Canon to Exeter over
twenty years ago, bringing with them a collection of
plants in which was a pot of wild snowdrops. Over the years her husband added different
varieties and they multiplied resulting in the wonderful collection that can be seen today.
Margaret and her husband developed the garden, dealing with the rough clay soil, and
landscaping paths down through the gently sloping lawns in front of the house. Later they
were able to buy a further piece of land with mature trees, at the back of the house, which
Margaret cultivated into a more natural area, dotted with swathes of crocus, hyacinth,
cyclamen and wild daffodils and snowdrops. Fifteen of our garden appreciation group
wandered happily through this garden, and marvelled at the many varieties of Galanthus
– the correct group name for snowdrops. This year has been so mild that the snowdrops
have been even earlier than usual, with 'Atkinsii' being the first to bloom, and 'Straffan'
usually being the last. In between, many of us thought that 'Magnet' took pride of place,
mainly because of its size as well as its beauty, while Barbara was taken with her namesake,
'Barbara double'. Margaret guided us around her garden, pointing out the different
varieties and what made them special – though they were all special to us! She instructed
us on how to lift the clumps and divide them every four or five years, and not to cut back
the leaves until at least six weeks after flowering as the plants need to store as much sunlight
as possible. The sun came out briefly as we left this enchanting garden and headed for the
City tour of Exeter. Thank you Wendy for organising another lovely garden visit. AMANDA
KINGSBRIDGE IN BLOOM
LOST GARDENS OF HELIGAN
We departed from Kingsbridge early on a lovely
summer’s morning. Our journey took about 2 hours
and was a delight. The Cornish banks were ablaze
with primroses and bluebells. As we approached
Heligan, we caught a glimpse of Pentewan Bay and
a sparkling sea. Most of the Heligan estate lies in
the parish if St. Ewe with the southern part in the
parish of Mevagissey. The name Heligan means “Willow Tree Garden” from the old Cornish.
On arrival, we divided into two groups and our group walked straight to Flora’s Green. This
was a large grassed area aflame with magnificent Rhododendrons, many of them hybrids
of plants brought from N. India and Nepal by the renowned planter gatherer Joseph Hooker.
We were fortunate to see the Rhododendrons in all their glory. A magnificent Magnolia
stood in the corner but had flowered earlier and only one bloom remained. It must have
been a glorious sight.
Our very informative guide gave us a brief history of the Gardens before restoration. The
house and gardens have been in the Tremayne family for over 400years. John Tremayne
(possibly of Huguenot descent) acquired Heligan in the mid 1600s and used it mainly for
quarrying and agriculture. By about 1770 it had become a thriving community and was
largely self sufficient . In 1820, the then squire Henry and his son John, mapped out rides
and gardens. John also sponsored Joseph Hooker on his excursions and introduced semi
–tropical plants to the gardens The hub of the gardens was the melon yard, lying between
the flower and vegetable gardens. It had a tool shed, a potting shed and a Pineapple Pit.
This was quite a status symbol and required tending around the clock to maintain the
temperature. A mixture of straw and manure gave heat and was replaced 3 times a year
with sacking being used for cover if the temperature dropped .There was a small hut to
house the gardeners and its own “Thunder Box” (toilet)-more of this later.
An Italian Garden was completed in 1905 by Jack
Tremayne. He was the last remaining member of
the Tremayne family and had no children. He
moved to Italy at the onset of WW1 and
bequeathed the estate to his sister, who had
married into the Barrington family and lived in
Cornwall. The house was converted into flats and
the gardens started to decline. Many of the
gardeners had fought in the trenches and sadly
didin’t return and there was a general shortage of
man power after the war finished. Several decades of neglect followed further exacerbated
by the devastating hurricane of 1990.
By then, the grounds surrounding the house had been inherited by John Willis and the
house recently sold. John took local archaeologist Tim Smit to visit the devastation and he
was fascinated by what they discovered. A few days later, he returned with a builder friend
John Nelson who was equally captivated and a partnership formed to try and restore the
gardens. As the days and months of clearance and restoration passed, they hacked through
to a small two storied hovel with a collapsed roof. This was the gardeners’ hut from the
Melon Yard and on the plaster walls of the “Thunder Box” were uncovered faint pencil
graffiti-lines from Victorian songs, doodles and most importantly a faint column of
signatures and the date 1914. This was quickly determined to be a list of workers who had
departed to the trenches, many never to return. On the outside wall as a tribute and
memorial to the fallen men, hang a helmet from the trenches and a Cornish shovel. The
“Thunder Box Room” has now been identified as their living memorial by the Imperial War
Museum and the restoration programme was undertaken in their names.
Three decades later, much of the gardens have been restored to their 19�� century heyday.
The most spectacular restoration is probably the series of lakes, fed by a ram pump 100
years old, which drop steeply and are the named “The Jungle”. Ferns and sub-tropical plants
proliferate there.
The trust formed to manage the gardens on lease from the Temayne family has now
extended the lease to well over 200 acres leaving the project far from complete. The focus
now is to work closely with nature, respecting and protecting it.
This report touches on only a small part of what is to be seen at Heligan. A visit is strongly
recommended and I for one will certainly return . My thanks to Wendy and Tony for
arranging this memorable visit. BRENDA HOPE
TORRE ABBEY
Through thunder, lightning and drifts of hail we arrived at Torre
Abbey and what an excellent and surprising venue this was. Built
in 1196 by this astonishing man, William Brewer for Richard 1st
and his father Henry 2nd, with 800 years of well exhibited
history, documented electronically and beautifully arranged,
there was just so much. William Brewer in his armour with his
'animatronic' head was so life-like as he talked away, spooky was
certainly a good adjective to use and made a lasting impression.
With three floors, one dedicated to a wonderful collection of
paintings and of course the Abbey surrounding you to explore, there was just so much. A
visit to the gardens, the Palm House, the Arid house, the 'poison' garden (Agatha Christie),
all of this when the sun came out, gave us such a very good day and we ran out of energy
rather than interest. The gardens alone would merit another visit in the summer when all
the glorious plants are in bloom. Although William Brewer is credited with first
building the abbey I believe that the other handsome chap in your picture was
Thomas Ridgeway who bought Torre Abbey in 1598 and is sporting an Elizabethan
ruff and armour. SHEILA HARRISON
OXFORD
Four night residential visit
Tony Westlake, who organised last year’s very
successful visit to Salisbury, had the brilliant
idea of suggesting a visit to Oxford for U3A
members. I personally was very keen to go, as
I had never before had the chance to get to
know the city, and so, apparently were quite a
few others. In the end 14 of us set out on June
6��. Most took the opportunity to stop and have
a look at the village of Lacock on the way,
others drove directly to Oxford and had some
time to get their bearings straight away by
enjoying a leisurely walk along the banks of the
Thames opposite the boathouses and admiring
the athleticism of rowers in impossibly long, narrow craft managing not only to keep
them upright but also achieve a good turn of speed. Our hotel was very well chosen as
it was on an easy bus route into the centre and we were extremely well looked after.
On our first full day we found a lovely guide who gave us a
walking tour round the old centre of Oxford, which we could
not have seen from a vehicle as the area is pedestrianised.
She showed us Wren’s Sheldonian Theatre, took us into the
mediaeval School of Divinity, which is part of the Bodleian
Library, and led us round the Radcliffe Camera to see St
Mary’s Church, all the while informing us of the history of
these places and pointing out the many colleges in this area.
The highlight, perhaps, was a visit inside New College, founded
in 1379, and a chance to appreciate the ancient peaceful
quadrangle, the dining room, which we recognised from the
Morse programmes and the beautiful gardens and chapel. The
Weston Museum had two free exhibitions, received with
varying degrees of enthusiasm by our group. Our guide then
showed us an incredibly quirky pub for lunch. It was down a
little alleyway and we never would have found it by ourselves.
That evening some of us went to hear an amazing organ concert given by the renowned
Stephen Cleobury in Christ Church Cathedral in the grounds of Christ Church College,
another very special treat. On Wednesday we all had different plans for the morning.
Some of us, for instance, decided to climb the 129 steps to the top of St. Mary’s Church
tower in order to admire the wonderful view of the city. It was well worth the effort.
OXFORD TRIP GROUP
Some visited Trinity College, again very impressive.
We were all amused to see now and then students
entering the examination “Schools” wearing their
variously coloured carnations with their sub-fusc,
depending on whether they were starting or finishing
their round of exams. On leaving they were drenched
with sticky confetti if they were not quick enough to
escape. In the afternoon most of the group had a very
pleasant boat ride up the Thames to Abingdon. It
lasted a couple of hours and I think most of us were
grateful to take the weight off our long-suffering feet
by this time. For we still had the evening ahead of us.
For some there was the absolute delight of an
orchestral concert given by the OU orchestra in the Sheldonian. Others preferred to
listen to some jazz while having a relaxing dinner in the town. There is a Hop On Hop
Off bus option in Oxford. This takes visitors on a much wider sweep round the town,
and allows them to see the colleges and museums which are further from the centre as
well as conveniently going near our hotel. On Thursday we had a complete contrast, a
much anticipated visit to Blenheim Palace. This involved a twenty minute car ride, and when
we arrived the view of the park with the palace and the lake with Vanbrugh’s bridge was simply
stunning. In small groups we toured the garden either on foot or in an electric buggy walked
round the Formal Gardens with a guide, or visited the house. Here there is much to see of
interest, including a special Churchill exhibition, and lots of information from the guide about
the first Duke of Marlborough and his military exploits. These are commemorated in a stunning
collection of Belgian tapestries. There is also a good collection of Chinese porcelain and a huge
library. This was a fine climax to our Oxfordshire experience. Our thanks go to Tony and also
to Wendy Bolt who, with her usual verve, did a lot of the organising, especially researching
the entertainment possibilities for the evenings. I know we all enjoyed the experience
tremendously not only thanks to our leaders but also due
to the fabulous weather we enjoyed all week long. How
lucky can you get? Here’s to the next time!. BARBARA
MCLARTY
BLENHEIM PALACE
Another highlight of our visit was the trip down the river to
Abingdon, the sun shone , we started from Head of the River
and Folly Bridge and travelled through the city past famous
landmarks including Christchurch College and Meadows,
the University boathouses and regatta course, . From the
ANDY & LINDA
river we took in a side of Oxford's heritage rarely seen by
visitors to the city. Quaint Osney Island, well-loved allotments and gardens and majestic and
ancient Port Meadow are off the tourist trail but represent some of Oxford's most beautiful
and intriguing scenery. Port Meadow, a vast area of common land, has remained little changed
since prehistoric times and supports plants and bird-life in abundance. At the top of Port
Meadow is Godstow. Godstow was the ultimate destination of Alice Liddell and Lewis Carroll
when they followed an identical route to our trip while composing 'Alice's Adventures in
Wonderland'. It is also the site of Trout Island, an inspiration for another of Oxfords literary
icons, C S Lewis, and his stories of the land of Narnia. Just a few miles downstream from Oxford
you come to Iffley Lock, the village has a fabulous Norman church. Continuing downstream
we passed through Sandford Lock which boasts the largest fall of water from its weir and is a
pretty impressive sight. On reaching Abingdon lock before - Abingdon Bridge - the original
bridge was built in 1422 with 14 arches, and the current structure still retains a medieval feel.
Here we disembarked and after enjoying ice creams on the quayside caught the bus back to
Oxford, a most enjoyable two hours spent on the river. JUDY TYLER
DEVON SOCIAL HISTORY STUDY DAY
Initially we were disappointed – it was full, however because of it’s popularity they had managed
to expand the capacity. We were not sorry, the day proved to be fantastic after a very early start,
a picturesque drive across Dartmoor in glorious sunshine the day began well. On arrival ANN MARY
DRAY the organiser welcomed us, there was coffee, the lecture theatre was great everyone having
an excellent view of the screens and speaker from the tiered seating.
First speaker : FELICITY GOODALL – on ‘LOST DEVON’
Who knew that to have a rabbit warren in your garden in the 12��
century was not only fashionable but also lucrative; so much so
that a rabbit tax was introduced which made it no longer viable,
these raised mounds of the old Warrens can still be seen on
Dartmoor. Felicity then went on to speak of the famous people
with Devon associations including CHARLES KINGSLEY, ‘WESTWARD
HO’, RUDYARD KIPLING, JOHN BETJEMAN, ISAMBARD KINGDOM
BRUNEL, amongst others.. Some of our LOST INDUSTRIES included
the copper mines at Morewellham, paper mills at Tuckenhay,and
shipbuilding. This is just touching on a fascinating topic.
ROBERT HESKETH -SMUGGLERS OF DEVON
We learnt that even in the 16�� & 17�� centuries tax evasion was an issue; beer, spirits ,tea, silk,
salt were some of the popular items that were smuggled in to secluded coves, JACK RATTENBURY
was famous for having made this his career, this smuggling supplemented the incomes of the
poorer folk up and down the coast of Devon. Around 1850 taxes were reduced and tax evasion
became less profitable.
I think this poem by Rudyard Kipling tells it all.
IF you wake at midnight, and hear a horse's feet,
Don't go drawing back the blind, or looking in the street,
Them that ask no questions isn't told a lie.
Watch the wall my darling while the Gentlemen go by.
Five and twenty ponies,
Trotting through the dark Brandy for the Parson, 'Baccy for the Clerk.
Laces for a lady; letters for a spy,
Watch the wall my darling while the Gentlemen go by!
Running round the woodlump if you chance to find
Little barrels, roped and tarred, all full of brandy-wine,
Don't you shout to come and look, nor use 'em for your play.
Put the brushwood back again - and they'll be gone next day!
If you see the stable-door setting open wide;
If you see a tired horse lying down inside;
If your mother mends a coat cut about and tore;
If the lining's wet and warm - don't you ask no more!
If you meet King George's men, dressed in blue and red,
You be careful what you say, and mindful what is said.
If they call you " pretty maid," and chuck you 'neath the chin,
Don't you tell where no one is, nor yet where no one's been!
Knocks and footsteps round the house - whistles after dark You've no call for running out till the house-dogs bark.
Trusty's here, and Pincher's here, and see how dumb they lie
They don't fret to follow when the Gentlemen go by !
'If You do as you've been told, 'likely there's a chance,
You'll be give a dainty doll, all the way from France,
With a cap of Valenciennes, and a velvet hood A present from the Gentlemen, along 'o being good!
Five and twenty ponies,
Trotting through the dark Brandy for the Parson, 'Baccy for the Clerk.
Them that asks no questions isn't told a lie Watch the wall my darling while the Gentlemen go by!
After lunch we returned to hear FELICITY talk on ‘CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTORS’ This was a very
emotive subject. The people who announced ‘WE WILL
NOT GO TO WAR’ were brought to life as we were told
factual tales of the moral dilemma faced by Conscientious
Objectors in Devon during both World Wars. The stigma
continued well afterwards into civilian life and in some
cases haunted them forever. Final Speaker was Todd Gray
‘REMARKABLE WOMEN OF DEVON’ Who knew that in 1824
a certain MRS PARTINGTON from SIDMOUTH tried to
sweep away the incoming tide with a mop.! Her name and
deed became an international catch phrase lauded by
politicians and caricaturists of the day!
Three excellent speakers made it clear that Social History
is not just about stories from the past, but the telling and
remembering of recorded events from which we can learn so much, and which often put
current events into perspective. The Devon Social History Study day at Okehampton College a
resounding success. The 170 U3A Members who attended loved the venue with tiered seats
in a lecture theatre having top quality IT facilities, excellent speakers and scrumptious food.
Participants chatted vivaciously with each other and listened spell bound to presentations .
JUDY TYLER
When the alarm rang out at 6.30am on April 23rd my first thoughts were what am I doing
getting out of bed this early!! However, the whole day proved well worth the early start.
As Judy has said “what an enjoyable time we experienced” .The drive across Dartmoor
in sunshine, the friendliness of strangers, and of course all the interesting talks.
A very well organised day, thank you Okehampton. TRICIA BLAZEBY
KEU3A GEOLOGY GROUP REPORT SUMMER 2016
NORTH SANDS SALCOMBE
The Geology Group have visited two of the local areas
and one a bit further afield in the last three months.
In April we made a return visit to North Sands,
Salcombe. We had a look at the structures in the
Devonian rock around the beach and how they are
eroding. Although it was low tide we couldn't get up to
the iron deposits that had formed in the fault between
the cliffs and the castle but could easily see the red
staining from the beach . We then went up to
Overbecks for a look at the view back up the Estuary.
We could clearly see the difference in landscape which
is underlain by the older and more resistant schists
near the coast and the Devonian rocks up the Estuary.
In May we had a complete change and went across
the border into Cornwall to look at the volcanics
at Kit Hill near Callington. If you haven't been there
it's well worth a visit – the views are fantastic and
there are lots of industrial archaeology, wild
flowers and birds as well as the geology. We were
pleased to find a dyke swarm in the walls of the
quarry showing that there was more than one
injection of molten rock.
BLACKDOWN RINGS
KIT HILL
In June we paid a short visit to Blackdown Rings just
north of Loddiswell. The underlying rock here is
Staddon Grit. This, it is thought, was originally
deposited as sand and gravels off shore of the Old
Red Sandstone continent about 390 million years
ago, in a similar manner to how the Bar at Salcombe
if forming now. Over the next 100 million years it was
buried and deformed during the Variscan continental
collision making it into the micaceous sandstone we
see today. The best example is the rock at the exit to
the car park although examples can be found in the
ditches of the Hill Fort.
Welcome to
BRIDGE CLUB
Kingsbridge Estuary U3A Bridge Group is a part of the University of the
Third Age and is affiliated to the English Bridge Union.The group meets
on a Friday from September to May and welcomes both experienced
players and beginners.The emphasis is on learning and playing the ACOL system.
The group endeavours to prepare members for playing in duplicate bridge clubs by giving
experience of playing in a reasonably formal environment.
Tuition and coaching are provided and this includes proper bidding practice and play, best
behaviour, etiquette and scoring.
Sessions are normally played as duplicate with occasional multiple teams.
Wherever possible pre-dealt hands are used and hand records provided.
Individuals are welcome to attend and will be partnered with someone of similar ability.
Thanks to everyone who played in the Devon Air Ambulance simultaneous pairs event.
We raised a total of £152.80.
Congratulations to two of our pairs in the top 10 (out of 89 pairs):
5th - Helen and Ella 10th - Chris and Janet
CONTACT: STEVE 531252
CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS GROUP
This very popular and friendly group meets twice a month at the
Crabshell Inn, Kingsbridge. There are 30 members and we
average over 20 at each session. We use the Times Quick Cryptic,
the Daily Telegraph Cryptic or the Guardian Cryptic crosswords. Naturally there
is a range of abilities and this is allowed for by using different difficulty of
crossword.
Once a year a Beginners course is offered to newcomers. Provided there is
sufficient interest, the next one will start in October 2016. The course introduces
the “language of cryptic crosswords” over a series of 10 sessions and is suitable
to anyone who is interested in learning how to solve the cryptic crosswords
found in the daily newspapers. As well as the absolute beginner it would suit
people who fill in the odd clue or when looking at the answers can’t work out
why that was the solution.
The more advanced groups always welcome new members – if you are
interested in joining this enthusiastic & friendly group or just want more
information please contact
ANDY on 581164 or email [email protected].
The group meets on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays at the Crabshell Inn, 10am – noon.
(no meetings in July or August),
TWO MEN WENT TO …….!!
.
U3A VISIT TO NEWTON ABBOT
Tucker’s Maltings is one of only four traditional malt
houses in the country supplying thirty breweries. I thought that this important part of our
Devonian heritage required closer inspection and the twenty fourth malting’s festival was
an ideal time. On Saturday the 16�� April Andy Coton and myself, representing our U3A
caught the 11.30 bus to Totnes and then train to Newton Abbot. Upon arrival we found our
way to the food area and started discussing horology with a chap whose firm will be
undertaking restoration of the Salcombe church clock and he was proud of the fact that he
had restored the 13th century clock in Salisbury cathedral. Having lined our stomachs we
paid the five pounds entrance for our souvenir half pint glass, and purchased some beer
tokens. There were about 280 different beers from 87 brewers, bringing their beers from
as far as Dorset, Wiltshire, Cornwall and Jersey. There were stouts, porters, browns, milds,
bitters ales, IPA’s and even barley wines. Some had wonderful names such as Heather
BeeHiving Badly (a honey beer from Hop Kettle in Wiltshire) or Beheaded (from Keltek in
Cornwall).
The beer was helped down by a couple of musical acts, and we resisted the temptation to
join in! Our thanks go to Andy’s wife whose expertise sorted our travel arrangements out.
We thank the membership for the privilege of representing the U3A at this important event
and we look forward to carrying out our duties again next year! TONY
We, the remaining two of the original five man party of U3A men, went to The Maltings at
Newton Abbot Beer Festival to proudly represent Kingsbridge U3A, to stand shoulder to
shoulder with the massed ranks of dedicated beer drinkers. On arrival we purchased our
strip of beer tokens that gave us access to 285 different barrels of beer stacked temptingly
on racks behind a very long bar. We expertly sampled the golden blonde, the malty bitters,
the dark stout ales and even graduated to the mighty 10% brew. The afternoon passed in a
haze of beery delights together with earnest debates on the merits of each beer; comparing
hop/malt flavours, cloudy to clear and after tastes. Having valiantly worked our way through
the beer vouchers we decided to call it a day and by some miracle managed to find our way
home to Kingsbridge via train and bus without getting lost!
We look forward to representing KEU3A again next year and would welcome other members
to join our ‘Band of Brothers’. ANDY
NEWSLETTER
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POLICY REGARDING ADVERTISING
IT IS THE POLICY OF THE KEU3A NOT TO ADVERTISE OR
PUBLICISE ANY OTHER ORGANISATIONS, EVENTS,
BUSINESSES OR CHARITIES.
The Committee agreed that if an approach were made in advance
to the Chairman asking if publicity could be given to a future event
and such event was relevant to a Group activity
AUTHORISATION COULD BE GIVEN IF THOUGHT APPROPRIATE.
TEAS AND
COFFEES
If you could help
with refreshments at
the monthly meetings,
please sign the rota or
contact
TRICIA - 842507 OR
BUNNY 843332
HALL ARRANGEMENT
BEFORE MONTHLY
MEETINGS
At the moment the Committee
arrive early to put out the chairs. It is
proposed to send round a sheet for you
to sign if you are able to assist
occasionally before and after the
Monthly Meeting
KINGSBRIDGE SHOW
Once again we will have a table in the Craft
marquee
DATE - SEPTEMBER 3RD
Please can any of the Art group lend their work for
display. Photos etc from other Groups would also be
welcome - Contact -Anita
SOUTH WEST U3A
This encompasses a large area of the south west, there is an
excellent website which advertises forthcoming study days and
events
www.u3asites.org.uk/southwest
DID YOU KNOW ?
FREE 24 HOUR LEGAL ADVICE FOR U3A MEMBERS
TEL. First Assist 01455251 500 - Quote Third Age Trust Number 70494
First Assist can advise on any legal issues not just U3A related ones
WELFARE OFFICER
SINCE JANET ROSE HAS LEFT WE HAVE HAD NO-ONE IN THIS ROLE, IS
THERE ANY MEMBER WHO COULD TAKE THIS ON IT, ENTAILS SENDING
CARDS TO THE SICK AND ANYONE IN HOSPITAL.? IF YOU KNOW OF A
SICK MEMBER PLEASE INFORM ONE OF THE COMMITTEE. .
INF0RMATION
VISUAL AND AUDIO FOR MONTHLY MEETINGS
AT THE NEXT
MONTHLY MEETING
ANTHEA WILL HAVE
AN ‘INFORMATION
CORNER’ FOR NEW
MEMBERS
THE NEW PROJECTOR AND VISUAL SYSTEMS ARE UP
AND RUNNING AS ARE THE MICROPHONES.
WE HOPE THIS TOGETHER WITH THE BLACKOUT
CURTAINS ARE HELPING OUR MEMBERS TO GET EVEN
MORE ENJOYMENT OUT OF THE MONTHLY MEETINGS.
THANKS TO VERNON FOR ORGANIZING AND
PURCHASING THE EQUIPMENT.
THE PHANTOM POSTER
OF KINGSBRIDGE TOWN!
I often wonder what he’s like,
Does he walk, or ride a bike?
He must be tall and very thin
to make it easy to get in?
He must arrive in dead of night
He would be noticed in daylight.
But however does he get the keys
to get inside with such great ease?
Just look around and you will see
Just what it is that puzzles me!
How do those gaily coloured posters,
Adverts for Fairs and Roller Coasters,
The Circus, Concerts, local Hops,
Appear inside windows of empty shops?
I’ve given it much consideration
And think I have an explanation.
There must be, a little sprite
Who keeps himself well out of sight!
Wearing black from hat to socks
He squeezes through the letter box.
I’m sure the doors are firmly shut
And it really wouldn’t matter – but
Long after the Event – it makes me frown,
He never comes to take them down!!
KINGSBRIDGE NEEDS A HALL
A Hall A hall! How Kingsbridge needs a hall,
It’s the same old pleading lament.
We had one once and trod its boards
Such merry times we spent.
“All the world’s a stage” we’re told
And in “hamlet’s” all around
Within a goodly radius,
There are many to be found!
Yet, our men and women, children too
Although we’re “merely Players”
Still have no stage to call our own
It continues to dismay us!
It needn’t be a Theatre grand –
Just a Hall with seating
A stage with wings, to perform and rehearse
And space to hold a meeting.
We’ve had many “winters of discontent”
Is it ever “to be or not to be? That is the question?” so often posed.
Yet still we wait and to see.
“If‘t were done, when ‘tis done,
Then ‘t were well it were done quickly”
‘Cos “I know a Bank” but it’s in the red
And costs are looking sickly!!
But – Oh it would be so wonderful
To conjure a magic scheme!
To turn yearning to reality
Instead of a Midsummer’s Dream!
BY ANITA DUNSTER
CHRISTMAS LUNCH
FRIDAY DECEMBER 9TH 2016
12 NOON
AT THURLESTONE HOTEL - YARMER SUITE
COST £25 - FOR 3 COURSE LUNCH INCLUDING GLASS OF FRUIT
(non refundable)
PUNCH AND COFFEE
ON THE REVERSE YOU WILL FIND THE MENU - PLEASE MAKE
YOUR SELECTION AND RETURN, TOGETHER WITH CHEQUE
MADE OUT TO KINGSBRIDGE ESTUARY U3A (AND A STAMPED
ADDRESS ENVELOPE FOR YOUR TICKET) NO LATER THAN 18th
NOVEMBER TO:
ANITA DUNSTER - FLAT 2, THE RETREAT, EBRINGTON STREET,
KINGSBRIDGE, TQ7 1DE TEL: 852452
NAME ______________________________________________
ADDRESS ___________________________________________
______________________ POSTCODE_______________
TELEPHONE____________EMAIL ________________________
TICKETS WILL BE ISSUED ON A
FIRST COME FIRST SERVED BASIS
STARTERS
1. Roasted sweet potato & carrot veloute, with
whipped walnut cream
OR
2. Potted duck liver parfait smoked breast, apple jelly,
chutney brioche
OR
3. Steamed lemon sole, smoked salmon, caper butter sauce
MAIN COURSE
4. Confit of Loch Duart Salmon, leaf spinach, crushed
potato, brown shrimps saffron whipped cream.
OR
5. Roast Turkey, roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables
OR
6. Garden Herb Rissotto, char grilled vegetables,
black olives, parmesan crisps
–--------------------------------------------DESSERTS
7. Chocolate Marquise, Salted Caramel Ice cream
OR
8. Lemon Pannacotta, Raspberry Sorbet, Melba Sauce
OR
9. Christmas Pudding
CHOICE: Starter No.____________________
Main No: _____________________
Dessert No: ___________________
FIVE YEARS OF KEU3A
Thank you to our Chairman past, the present, and the future
Thank you to Committees all, who have steered us to this juncture
Thank you to Group Leaders who have battled on regardless
To ensure that we in our third age avoid elderly ga-ga-ness.
Thank you to our speakers who have informed, inspired and taught
Thank you to our tea ladies who were never over wrought
Thank you for the gatherings, the lunches and the dinners
Thank you for the fun we've had with Groups – we are all winners!
Thank you to all behind the scenes, sometimes we know not who,
Set up the room, the sound, the boards, for a meeting to come to
Thank you for all the lifetime friendships formed along the way,
and our splendid and successful group which is KEU3A
KEU3A EVENING OF ENTERTAINMENT
FRIDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2016
WEST CHARLETON VILLAGE HALL
£5 BUFFET SUPPER
to include Pasty & salad garnish (or vegetarian option)
Coffee and Cake.
ENTERTAINMENT PROVIDED BY U3A MEMBERS FOR U3A
MEMBERS
ENJOY AN EVENING OUT WITH FRIENDS
TUCKENHAY - WALK WITH PUB LUNCH GROUP
PHOTO BY ANTHONY GREENWOOD