2026 is the National Year of Reading and there are hundreds of u3a book groups across the movement where members are embracing a love of reading and discussing literature. We asked u3a book groups to share the novels that they think are perfect for reading in the summer months.

The National Year of Reading is a campaign designed to help more people of all ages discover the joy of reading. A 2025 survey by The Reading Agency found that regular readers are 86% more likely to report feeling a sense of belonging to their community and 58% feeling generally happy, compared to non-readers.

Book groups within u3a are open to lifelong literature lovers and casual readers alike. The formats of these groups vary across the movement. At some, members meet to discuss the books they're reading in their spare time while others take on a more traditional book group format, with members all reading the same book. Many groups read all types of literature while others are dedicated to specific genres. By combining novels with conversation and social interaction, joining a book group can be a compelling way to get back into reading.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, we’ve asked book groups across the movement to share recent novels that they think are perfect for the summer months.

Bakewell u3a Book Group

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

Light but beautifully crafted summer reading, this is a wonderfully told, gentle story, in print and audio. Although the premise sounds a bit wacky - the narrator and eponymous hero is an octopus, Marcellus, who bonds with the aquarium night cleaner and solves the mystery of her disappearing son - the book explores themes of family, love, connection and healing across generations. There’s even an excellent and very moving film starring the ever-wonderful Sally Fields. We read it as a Christmas ‘extra’ and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

The book cover of Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

Shimna u3a Book Group

Seven Sisters by Lucinda Riley

“This series, based on the Seven Sisters stars consellation, tells the story of seven sisters from around the world.”

Hungerford & District u3a Book Group

The Fortnight in September by RC Sheriff

We have just finished this novel. A very gentle read, this brought lots of memories for our older readers. Coincidentally it was given a write up in Giles Coren’s ‘restaurant’ review in the Saturday Times!

The book cover of The Leopard

Hay u3a Book Group

The Leopard by Tomasi Di Lampedusa

This novel, set in 1860’s Sicily follows the toppling of the Bourbon kingdoms by the invasion of Garibaldi’s Redshirts.

The subsequent decline of the power of the aristocracy is reflected in the plot of the novel. Prince Fabrizio and his family play a chess like game, negotiating their way through the new regime. Recently included in The Guardian’s top 100 novels of the century, the prose is sublime.

Newcastle u3a Novels in Translation Group

After Midnight by Irmgard Keun

This tells the story of a naive young woman in 1930s Germany who gradually becomes aware of the horrors of that time.

u3a Office Book Group

The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
Gothic, engrossing and faintly magical, this is a fairytale-esque story about the power of books, all set against the backdrop of post-war Barcelona.”

The book cover of The Shadow of the Wind

Start your reading journey and find a book group near you with u3a.

Find your nearest u3a

u3a.org.uk/latest-news/u3a-boo…

IGO July 26 News Extra

Hello everyone, and welcome to the July edition of the Interest Groups Online News Extra!

I hope you're all enjoying the summer and finding time to join in with your favourite groups – or perhaps even try something new. I'm especially pleased to say that we've recently added new groups in both Music and Languages, so do take a look if either of those takes your fancy.

As always, this News Extra is all about you and the wonderful things happening across our Interest Groups. If your group has had an interesting discussion, a great speaker, a special event or even just a memorable meeting, I'd love to hear about it. Please send your stories, photos and articles to interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk. Every contribution helps keep News Extra lively, varied and full of ideas to inspire others.

Happy reading, and thank you to everyone who has contributed to this month's issue!

Helen Titherington, Trust Volunteer – IGO News Extra Editor

New Groups

New Groups

• 
  
  • The soul train
  • Sountracks of our lives
  • French reading
  • Fish school

Potential Groups

• Ancient Greek for beginners
• Learn Geoguessr

Join all groups via Beacon

New Group – The soul train

Soul, Motown, R&B and Funk — if you like any of the above genres, then it will most definitely be worth checking us out.

Each month, we will share our love of all things Soul, Motown, R&B and Funk, including great music and good conversation. We will start by selecting an album to listen to and discuss, then as the months tick by, we will open it up to members' choices, which will really be fun to hear all your favourites and for the whole group to enjoy.

The first few months will get us going as follows. We will start with the gorgeous album from Toni Braxton, Secrets. This album was 30 years old on the 18th of June just gone, and it’s the one which really sealed Toni’s place in R&B history. Well worth a visit.

Month Two will be a look at the albums of Sade, 6 in total, so far. So far, being the appropriate name of her full 6 album record collection box set. It really is a work of Art and with ongoing talk of her returning and releasing more. This really could be a winner.

In Month 3, we will look at the series Motown Chartbusters, released in the 70’s. It was Volume 3, which sealed the deal for me with Motown and is a great album featuring the Temptations. Marvin Gaye. Stevie Wonder, Marther Reeves and the Supremes, to name just a few.

We will meet on the 4th Wednesday of each month at 10:00 am until 11:30. 1 ½ hours of first-class music.

As James Brown once said, “We're gonna have a funky good time”.

Roger, Group Leader

Join via Beacon

New group - French reading

Toute conversation en Francais

Presupposes an ability to read in French and discuss fluently.

Rather than undertaking to read a full length work, we will read and discuss ONE short story each month.

As Maupassant is an internationally acknowledged master in this field, we will use the following text: Tous les Contes et Nouvelles de Maupassant (available for download at a modest cost) on Amazon Kindle

Ce cours suppose une bonne maîtrise du français, tant à la lecture qu'à la discussion. lieu de lire une œuvre complète, nous lirons et discuterons d'une seule nouvelle par mois.

Maupassant étant un maître reconnu internationalement dans ce domaine, nous utiliserons le recueil suivant : « Tous les Contes et Nouvelles de Maupassant » (disponible en téléchargement à un prix modique) sur Amazon Kindle.

FIRST THURSDAY 11 am

Join via Beacon

New group - The soundtracks of our lives

Once a month we meet on Zoom to hear a short talk by one of our members about their own life, and listen to five pieces of music which are important to them. Talks will be prepared in advance. Group leader Diana will host each session, playing music via Spotify. An opportunity to share your personal history and the music that has inspired you, and for those listening to be enlightened and entertained.

Every 4th Wednesday from 7:30 pm

Thanks very much - Diana, Group Leader

Join via Beacon

New group – Fish school

Commencing July 23rd, 2026

Welcome to the u3a Tropical Fish Group! Whether you are an experienced aquarist or completely new to the hobby, our friendly community is the perfect place to share your passion for freshwater fish.

Fishkeeping is a deeply rewarding hobby that has many benefits, offering a proven way to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and bring a beautiful slice of nature into your home.

You will be surprised how fast you can learn to recognise some words. The course is for complete beginners. Tuesdays at 11am

Join via Beacon

Potential group – Learn Geoguessr

GeoGuessr is a browser-based geography game in which players try to deduce locations from Google Street View imagery. Essentially its a game where you are given a photo of anywhere in the world and you have to work out where it is. The skilled can do it in less than a minute!!!

Join via Beacon

Potential group – Ancient Greek for beginners

Potential groups provide an opportunity for members to help set up a group which is not currently included in our active groups or where existing groups are full. When there are enough members in the Potential group, we organise a meeting so you can decide between you how the group will work and how it will be run.

The group will be for people with no prior knowledge of Ancient Greek.

Join via Beacon

Help urgently required in running the IGO Gardening group

An informal but participatory group which discusses all forms of gardening on all types of soil. What we buy, what we grow and how we do it Mistakes we've made and successes we have created, visits made or planned, new ideas; we have read, seen or tried, recommended or not!

A reasonable knowledge of gardens or gardening is required.

Meetings held first Monday of the month 4:00 pm for approx 1 hour.

Contact Barbara for a chat (via interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk) if interested.

Quiz time

1. In what year was American independence declared on July 4th?
2. In what 20th-century decade did Kylie Minogue release her first album, entitled Kylie?
3. In July 1976, at the Olympic Games in Montreal, Nadia Comaneci was the first person to score a perfect 10 in a gymnastics event - how old was she at the time?
4. In July 2007, the last in the Harry Potter series – Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – was released. How many millions of copies were sold worldwide during the first 24 hours, making it the fastest-selling book in history?
5. In what 20th-century decade did the Prime Minister Harold McMillan sack 7 members of his Cabinet?
6. In July of what year did Boris Johnson become the prime minister?
7. In July 1981, Charles and Di were married. What was the estimated world wide Tv audience?
8. In July 1966, who won the World Cup with a 4-2 victory?

Answers at the end

Correction - American politics

The meetings for this will take place on the 4th Monday from 4 pm, not on the 4th Friday, as advertised last month – Apologies.

Quiz Answers

1. 1776
2. 80s
3. 14
4. 10.95 million
5. 1962
6. 2019
7. 750 million
8. England

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u3a.org.uk/what-we-do/learning…

u3a Festival 26 has begun, with over 1,000 members gathering in York for three days of creativity, sport, learning and connection.

The event officially kicked off with an opening ceremony on Wednesday 1 July, where special guest Johnny Ball, cut a blue ribbon. Known for his career in which he championed a fun approach to learning, Johnny Ball is the perfect guest for u3a and will delivering a talk about his life at the Festival.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Iain Cassidy said, "This event showcases the u3a spirit on a national level. People across the UK have come together to learn, to laugh and live. A huge thank you to the volunteers and the staff - a special shout out to Karen, Margaret and Julie - without whom this event would literally not be happening."

Karen Sawyer is Chair of the Festival Working Team while Margaret Fiddes is the Festival Programme Coordinator and along with Special Events Officer Julie Travers, they have led the Festival Working Team. They have tirelessly worked to create an engaging programme that puts the members at the heart of the event.

Across the three days, over 120 activities are taking place with activities covering sport, music, art, history, and learning. There is a range of talks as well as interactive workshops, providing members with a variety of different ways to learn. Some of the more unusual activities members can sample include laughter yoga, a walking cricket tournament, and shinrin-yoku, more commonly known as forest bathing.

Discover endless opportunities in retirement with u3a.

Find your nearest u3a

u3a.org.uk/latest-news/u3a-fes…

IGO June 26 News Extra

This month, we remember David Hockney, one of our foremost modern artists, who died on the 11th June aged 88.

Please email the editor, Helen, on: interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk

with any articles for inclusion in the next issue.

Helen Titherington, Trust Volunteer – IGO News Extra Editor

New Groups

New Groups

• 
  
  • American politics
  • Mindfulness now
  • Beginners bridge
  • Exploring science fiction novels
  • Italian upper-intermediate conversation
  • Ab initio lingua Latina pro tironibus
  • Meditation
  • Microcontrollers and electronics users group

Join all groups via Beacon

New Group – Mindfulness now

This 8-week rolling mindfulness course offers an opportunity to explore the origins of mindfulness, understand the theory behind its many benefits, and develop a personal mindfulness practice in a supportive and relaxed environment. Each session includes guided practices and practical techniques that participants can continue to build on at home, helping to bring greater awareness and balance into everyday life.

Mindfulness has been shown to support wellbeing in many ways, including helping to reduce stress, improve focus, encourage relaxation, and promote a greater sense of calm and resilience. Whether you are completely new to mindfulness or looking to deepen an existing practice, this course provides gentle guidance and encouragement to help you move forward at your own pace.

1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 1pm

Sue Bishop Group Leader

Join via Beacon

New group - American politics

This group will explore how American politics works, from the Constitution and the separation of powers to the roles of the President, Congress and the Supreme Court. We’ll look at how elections are run, why the two‑party system dominates, and how issues such as civil rights, federalism and public opinion shape political debate. The aim isn’t to take sides but to understand the ideas, institutions and history behind today’s headlines. Everyone is welcome to bring questions, share views and explore the topics that interest them most.

4th Friday of the Month at 4pm.

Group leaders are Peter Grimes and Imogen Hal

Join via Beacon

New group - Beginners bridge

We are now taking names on a 'first come, first served basis' for our next Beginners Bridge Course starting in June 2026.

The online course has been developed over the past 4 years to ideally suit those u3a members who have never played Bridge before.

The course consists of lesson handouts, videos, quizzes and exercises that you study at home at your own pace.

The course consists of lesson handouts, videos, quizzes and exercises that you study at home at your own pace.

We have weekly Tuesday afternoon online meetings where key points are discussed and questions are answered. This is followed by supervised practice sessions where you play hands with other class members to reinforce the lessons you have learned.

The course lasts for 24 weeks and you should be prepared to devote approx. 7 hours per week to complete the course.

By the end of that time, you will be able to enjoy Bridge games with friends and play in a novices Bridge Club.

Bridge is recognised as one of the most popular u3a activities because it is fun, it keeps you mentally active, it is sociable and a great way to make new friends.

Our Beginner’s course gets you off to a great start, but you will continue learning, improving and developing your Bridge for the rest of your life – it’s a never-ending and rewarding journey - sign-up today !!!

Tuesdays at 2pm.

Join via Beacon

New group - Science fiction novels

An informal group meeting each month to discuss science fiction novels of all types and from all eras. It is a chance to share favourite books and authors whilst trying to get to grips with time travel, alternative histories and life on other planets. From Brian Aldiss to Roger Zelazny, the sci-fi universe is out there for us to explore.

Second Tuesday of the month, at 2pm.

Join via Beacon

New group - Ab initio lingua Latina pro tironibus

Have you ever wanted to read Martial's tales of the 100 days of games mounted at the opening of the Colisseum, Ovid's account of the ill-fated lovers Pyramus and Thisbe, Caesar's recounting of the Gallic Wars, the incomparable odes of Horace, or Vergil's epic tale of Aeneas, but in the original Latin. Maybe you just want to decipher old plaques in country churches and cathedrals. Here is your opportunity. In this group, you will be taken from the very beginning to a good understanding of classical Latin through learning the fundamentals of grammar, translating simple sentences (to begin with!) and tackling original Latin literature.

Mondays at 11.30.

Join via Beacon

New group - Meditation

The meditation will be about 30 minutes long , it consists of beginning with a very short gentle breath work, followed by going on a guided inner journey sometimes experiencing removing negative energies and obtaining good energies, journey will be to create harmony and inner peace , then returned back again.

Fortnightly on Wednesdays at 16.00

Ersoy Mehmet - Group Leader

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New group - Italian upper-intermediate conversation

An Italian group to improve speaking/listening & conversational skills. We will be taking turns to speak throughout the session. I will not be teaching grammar etc. You should have studied all the tenses (apart from passato remoto & conjiuntivo) but may not be able to speak well using them. Making mistakes is good as that's how we learn. We will have differing topics of conversation in each session, with the chance to study vocabulary/tenses & do some listening beforehand. I, your course leader, am not a native speaker but i have taught ESOL and I know we can help each other to improve and gain confidence. If you're not sure of your level, please contact me and we can check it.

First and third Tuesdays of the month from 1.30pm.

Angela Wilshin - Group Leader

Join via Beacon

Picture quiz

1. How old was Elvis when this picture was taken in June 1958.

2. What are the coloured lights on this building celebrating in the month of June?

UK Ministry of Defence, OGL 3, via Wikimedia Commons

3. This picture of the Goddess Juno was discovered in which world famous site close to the Italian volcano Vesuvius ?

4. Which June zodiac sign is depicted in this picture?

5. What are these two Julia butterflies drinking?

amalavida.tv, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Answers are at the end

Great group leaders

I would like to nominate Brenda as a great psychology group leader and say a huge thank you to her.

Brenda is a brilliant presenter — knowledgeable, organised, approachable, and genuinely inspiring. Every session feels like an adventure into the incredible and diverse world of psychology, and I always come away having learnt something new.

What makes the group especially enjoyable is Brenda’s ability to bring out the best in everyone. She creates such a welcoming and engaging atmosphere that encourages discussion, reflection, and curiosity. It is a privilege to be part of such a fantastic group led by our exceptional leader Brenda

Mary Ann, group member ⭐️🌟⭐️

I'd like to nominate Roger who leads the Canva courses.

All the time and effort he has put in to make Canva accessible and understandable to the groups is truly commendable, as is his patience in answering all our questions. We are shown examples of all the ways we can use Canva, and also exercises to practise in our own time. It's like having a book, a YouTube video and a personal tutor all in one!

Regards - Val - group member ⭐️🌟⭐️

I am pleased to comment on Gordon, who runs TWO IGO groups that I subscribe to.

The first is Fusion Tai Qi Gong on Wednesdays at 10.30.

Gordon has been an amazing tutor, and the support he has also provided via Padlets and online articles is just immense. His teaching is awesome and the empathy he extends to every member is a joy. I cannot thank him and u3a enough.

Secondly, he then follows that fortnightly with Apple Devices IGO which is proving to be a learning curve for us all. Even when he is confronted by some highly talkative members, his diplomatic skills and calm reaction are also great. Again, his humility and willingness to share is awesome. u3a IGO Members are so privileged to have access to such a professional, kind and considerate person. Thank you, Gordon.

David - group member ⭐️🌟⭐️

Latin tutor Robert, is great. He is very patient but also very knowledgeable and interesting. I would recommend his classes to everyone.
Debbie, group member ⭐️🌟⭐️

Existing group - Neville Shute books

After having a mad moment I volunteered to set up and run the Nevil Shute Books group. At the moment we are quite a small group with only 12 members and we read at least one book each month.

For the first meeting we looked at the first book Nevil Shute published in 1926 - Marazan. We thought the book was of its time and there were some terms and terminology within the book that came across as quite dated - his conversations about women for example and the idea that if he wanted to fly anywhere he would just get in a plane and go - we didn't think it was as easy at that today! Several of us thought it was a bit "boys own" style but after discussion agreed that may just reflect a style of writing that was quite popular at the time - there was a conversation around the similarity in style to 39 steps and other John Buchan books. We are interested in exploring how his writing develops in later books and how the events of the 20th Century affected and influenced his writing and characters.

If you are interested in Nevil Shute books - or just interested in investigating an author you may not know much about then please join our friendly group. We meet on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 2pmand for the next meeting we will be looking at So Disdained which is the second book that was published. If we have time and enough people have been able to read them we will also look at Stephen Morris and Pilotage which are actually the first books he wrote but weren't published until after his death.

Jane McKenzie

Join via Beacon

Existing group - English: the first 4000 years

Our group "English: the first 4,000 years" studied how three keywords from three Semitic languages have entered English. Loanwords are nearly always transliterated rather than translated, so that the meaning is lost.

An important example is "shahid", which meant "witness" to the original Aramaic-speaking Christians, either "saw a crime" or as "declared their faith". This was translated into Greek as "martyros", but some Christians became Arabic-speaking Muslims after 632 CE. The Greek was then transliterated into Welsh as "merthyr" ( e.g. Tydfil) and English as "martyr".

We complied a glossary, "from Adam to Armageddon", which allows a single narrative to be written about the three religions. Do IGO members think that dialogue between the three Semitic-speaking languages would reduce conflict?

Ed Conduit

Join via Beacon

Tell us about your great group leader

We know, at Interest Groups Online, how vital our Group Leaders are, but we’d love to hear about them from you!

• Is your group leader amazing?
• How have they helped you to enjoy your group?

Please write a few lines about how they have made your time in the group really worthwhile and email interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk – help us celebrate our hard-working Group Leaders.

The u3a Essay Competition 2026

The u3a Essay Competition 2026 is here and the theme is The Most Incredible Journey. In 1,000 words or fewer, members are invited to share the story of a real, non-autobiographical journey. This might be a famous expedition, a scientific or medical breakthrough, a historical voyage that changed lives, or a cultural, intellectual or spiritual journey. The emphasis is on telling a true story in an engaging and accessible way. What remarkable journey will you uncover and share?

Submit your essay by Friday 31 July at 12 noon for the chance to win prize books kindly donated by HX Expeditions.

Picture quiz answers

1. 23
2. PRIDE month
3. Pompeii
4. Cancer
5. The tears from the tortoises ( lachryphagy )

Back to Interest Groups Online Noticeboard

u3a.org.uk/what-we-do/learning…

IGO May 26 News Extra

Welcome to our May edition of Interest Groups Online!

As the days grow longer and summer approaches, it’s a great time to discover something new, reconnect with familiar interests, and meet fellow members from across the u3a movement. This month we’re delighted to introduce several new online groups, including a brand-new Classic Prog Rock group for music enthusiasts and a Tennis group for anyone who enjoys the game.

We hope you enjoy exploring what’s on offer this month and perhaps even trying something completely new!

We are always keen to hear about what your group has been up to. Please send your articles to interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk to keep us updated..

Helen Titherington, Trust Volunteer – IGO News Extra Editor

New groups

New Groups

• Classic prog rock
• French for beginners
• Tennis news
• Patriarchy, power and society
• Jazz, big band and swing
• Fashion and beauty

Potential Groups

• Irish language for beginners

Join all groups via Beacon

New group – Classic prog rock

A group to explore classic prog rock music from the 1960s to the 1980s, to include music from groups such as ELP, Focus, Yes, King Crimson, Alquin, Caravan, Van de Graaf Generator, Jethro Tull, Gong, Aphrodite's Child and The Nice. Members are encouraged to contribute tracks to the sessions and the group leaders will create playlists to listen to and discuss. Themes for the sessions will be decided by the group.

Second Tuesday of the month 10-11.30am

Join via Beacon

New Group – Tennis news

The players, the courts and equipment, the grand slams, the Davies and the Billie Jean King Cups and other tournaments of note around the world – how long will Djokovic reign supreme have Sinner and Alcaraz knocked him off his top billing – What’s happened to Radacanu? - join now in time for the Slam down under.

Our first meeting is scheduled for 2pm 11th May and thereafter 2pm on the second Monday of the month.

Join via Beacon

New group - French for beginners

For those with little or no French. Our first meeting is at 19.00 hours on 8th May and thereafter on the 1st and the 3rd Thursday of the month 7 to 8.30 pm.

Join via Beacon

New group - Patriarchy, power and society

Around 12,000 years ago agriculture changed human history forever and ushered in the social institutions of patriarchy, domination culture and private property. This new discussion group will explore how our modern world has been shaped by the development and impact of patriarchy:

• Power and conflict: has patriarchy been a cause of war, crime, and social inequality?

• Religion: has patriarchy been a cause of organised religion?

* Class politics: has patriarchy been a cause and effect of slavery, feudalism, capitalism and socialism?

• Identity politics: has patriarchy been challenged by social movements for civil rights, gay rights and women’ s bbrights?

• The future: patriarchy and gender ideology, transhumanism, artificial intelligence and space travel

• Our environment: is patriarchy bound up with human supremacism, domination and dominion over our environment and non-human creatures, as opposed to stewardship of or cohabitation with our environment and non-human creatures?

Meetings will be a mix of pre-planned topics and discussions based on history and on current news. This is a collaborative discussion group that welcomes all points of view.

Tuesday pm TBC

Join via Beacon

New group - Jazz, big band and swing

If you like big band and swing jazz, join group leader Diana on zoom to watch Youtube videos and listen to Spotify together and chat about the music informally. We will focus on a different big band or singer each month, taking turns to choose. A great opportunity to enjoy uplifting music and spend an hour with people who like the same kind of music.
First Saturday of the month at 19.30.
Thanks and best wishes - Diana

Join via Beacon

New group - Fashion and beauty

A discussion around available and affordable fashion items, including fabrics, make up, hair products - plus a monthly special sewing bee including recycling clothes, outfits for children, evening outfits and casual wear. First Monday of the month to be arranged….

Join via Beacon

New potential group - Irish language for beginners

Potential groups provide an opportunity for members to help set up a group which is not currently included in our active groups or where existing groups are full. When there enough members in the Potential group, we organise a meeting so you can decide between you how the group will work and how it will be run.

The group will be for people with little or no knowledge of Irish.

Join via Beacon

Great Group Leader

I would like to nominate Stephen Balmer as a great group leader. He has just stood down from leading our French Intermediate Group, so this is really a thank you to him. He organised and led our weekly meetings for about 18 months, from which good friendships have grown and our French speaking has improved. Stephen inspired me with his grasp of French over a fairly short period of time, and membership of this group has increased my confidence. Stephen is a good facilitator, welcoming, and encouraging – thank you Stephen.

Sandy (group member)

⭐️🌟⭐️

Swallows and Amazons - IGO intermediate recorders

Occasionally, the music for the recorder group follows a theme. Recently, at least one piece each session has been following Arthur Ransome’s description in “Swallows and Amazons” of the party on Captain Flint’s Houseboat. Ransome gives clues to the music, such as “Spanish Ladies”, “The Whale”, “Amsterdam”, “Blow the Man Down” and “Away to Rio”. We would claim that we’ve played what he might have meant, even if it wasn’t exactly what he did mean. Captain Flint played a sailor’s hornpipe and that gave an excuse to play three hornpipes. One was by Purcell, one by Handel, and one you might recognise from “The Last Night of the Proms”.

We’re also working our way through a Bach Orchestral Suite, and we’ve marked Good Friday by playing music by Pergolesi and the Spring Equinox with music by, of course, Vivaldi.

All in all, a key factor in choice of our music is variety.

Peter - Intermediate Recorders Group Leader

Quiz time

1. What is the birthstone for May?
2. Who was born in May 1820 and later in life they introduced procedures reducing hospital death rates in the Crimean War from 42% to 2%?
3. Which 1958 book written by H. E. Bates first introduced us to the Larkins?
4. What is the name of the man who was the first to run a mile under 4 minutes - in May 1954?
5. Hawthorn is one of the two flowers associated with May - do you know the other?
6. Which royal opened the Manchester Ship Canal in May 1894?

Answers at the end

Is your Group Leader worth a mention?

If you would like to mention how effective, organised, or just plain friendly your group leader is - please write a few words in an email to the editor and we will publish them in a future News Extra

interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk

Help is at hand

If you are:

• having difficulty with our membership system Beacon
• or you have forgotten your password
• or you can’t seem to join a group

Or any other issue please email interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk and our team will respond quickly to help you sort the problem out.

Quiz Answers

1. Emerald
2. Florence Nightingale
3. The Darling Buds of May
4. Roger Bannister
5. Lily of the Valley
6. Queen Victoria

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u3a.org.uk/what-we-do/learning…

Whether you've recently picked up a paintbrush for the first time or you've been knitting for years, creative hobbies can make life richer, healthier, and more connected.

Here's why making time for creativity is one of the best things you can do for your wellbeing.

Creativity keeps your mind sharp

When you learn a new skill or work through a creative challenge, your brain forms new connections. Research consistently shows that engaging in creative activities helps maintain cognitive function, improve memory, and support mental agility.

It's not about being "good" at something. It's about the process of doing. The concentration required to learn a new stitch or mix the right colour on a palette is a genuine workout for your brain.

Carole hard at work

“Sometimes you might sit next to someone who’s doing something, and you go. ‘what is that?’ And it might be a technique you haven’t tried, or something they’ve worked out themselves. It’s great to keep learning more about woodcarving through others. That’s what u3a is all about.”

- Carole, member of High Wycombe u3a's woodcarving group

Gives you a sense of purpose

Having a project to work on, with something to look forward to, to finish, to be proud of, is deeply motivating. Creative hobbies give you goals that are entirely your own. There are no deadlines, no performance reviews, and no wrong answers.

“There’s just something about a piece of wood and working with chisels and gauges and using them to create something. It’s a slow process, it’s not something you do in one session - it might take months which is part of the pleasure of creating." says Carol.

It boosts your mood

Creative activity triggers the release of dopamine, the feel-good chemical associated with reward and motivation. Many people describe a creative flow state as deeply calming, almost meditative. Whether it's writing, drawing, playing music, or crafting, getting absorbed in something you love is a proven way to reduce stress and anxiety.

“I really took to patchwork. I’m completely hooked! The group is so friendly, so nurturing. If you make mistakes, there are people there to help. It’s just a very warm and nurturing group and I absolutely love it.”

- Wendy, member of Melton Mowbray u3a's Patchwork group

Wendy with her sewing machine

Build genuine connections

One of the most underrated benefits of creative hobbies is the community they create. There’s something about making something together, or sharing your work with others, that builds trust and friendship quickly.

"As well as learning skills you come together, you socialise, you make friends. For me, I was lucky enough to be able to retire at 60 and, apart from travel which I’m very keen on, forming friendships in a completely different setting like u3a was really important to me." says Wendy.

It's never too late to start something new

One of the most inspiring things about u3a is how many members try something completely new and absolutely love it. Curiosity doesn't have an age limit, and neither does creative potential.

Art works created by members of Monmouth u3a art group

“I never went to art school. But art has always been within me, and I have so many ideas just using materials to generate art, so the u3a committee suggested that I should start an art group. I believe that anyone can be creative!”

- Heather, who leads Monmouth u3a's art group

Ready to get creative?

u3a offers hundreds of creative interest groups across the UK, covering everything from painting, drawing, and sculpture to creative writing, music, drama, and crafts. All are led by members, for members — so they're warm, welcoming, and completely pressure-free.

Find your local u3a and discover what's on near you.

With over 1,000 u3as across the UK, there's almost certainly one on your doorstep — and a creative community waiting to welcome you.

Find your nearest u3a

u3a.org.uk/latest-news/creativ…

Missing Pieces encourages members to uncover the real life stories behind local listed buildings.

Inspired by Historic England's project of the same name, u3a's new learning activity encourages members to contribute to the archive around listed buildings in their area.

u3a's project is UK wide, enabling members to take part in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland - although the way that members can participate varies dependent on the region the listed building is in. As part of the project, u3a has reached out to heritage charities across the UK - including Historic England, Save Britain's Heritage, People's Collection Wales and Historic Environment Scotland.

The activity is supported by u3a Subject Adviser Sandra Whitnell. Speaking about the importance of the project and it's relevance to u3a members, she said, "History’s not just about places but about people and stories. These stories should be inclusive and accessible. There are over 600 local history groups within the u3a and many more are involved and curious about their local history.’

Members can contribute individually or collaborate on submissions within their interest groups. These submissions can be memories, research or, in some nations, photography, artwork and creative writing. This means the project is ripe for interpretation by a broad range of u3a interest groups.

By contributing to the projects, members add to the historic record, bringing these important buildings to life by sharing the stories of the people who lived in them. It's also a way for members to learn more about the places they live.

The project was launched at the first in a series of online u3a events exploring historic buildings in the UK. At this opening event, Gareth Powell from Historic England spoke about the project and shared his enthusiasm for u3a’s involvement. He said, "I really believe the built environment and telling of local stories are for everyone. They’re not defined by your academic background or interests."

Pictured: Burgh Island Hotel, one of the buildings on the National Heritage List for England.

Find out how you can get involved

Missing Pieces

u3a.org.uk/latest-news/u3a-lau…

For the first time ever, two runners have taken on and completed the incredible challenge of the London Marathon in support of u3a.

A huge congratulations to Sheryl, whose mother is a member of West Bridgford u3a, and Clive, a member of Charnwood u3a, for completing the TCS London Marathon to raise money for the Third Age Trust.

Sheryl's connection to u3a

This was Sheryl's third marathon and she chose to run it in support of the Third Age Trust, due to the difference it has made to her mum's life, after the bereavement of Sheryl's dad.

Talking about what this run means to her she said, "u3a has provided an important source of connection for my mum, during times that could've been very lonely and isolating, providing learning opportunities and experiences like Tai Chi, which has become a great way of meeting new people in a really difficult time for her. My mum is an amazing supportive individual, and therefore anything that helps my mum live a happier life since my dad has gone holds a very dear place in my heart."

Sheryl, on one of her runs prepping for the marathon

Clive, after completing the London Marathon

A new chapter for Clive

Clive is a u3a member himself, having joined after his retirement last year. He takes part in the badminton and pickleball groups and attends the monthly meetings. For him, u3a represents a new chapter.

He said, "I was a bit anxious at joining the organisation as I was unsure what they could offer me. I have been bowled over by the warm welcome I have had from members welcoming me to various groups and events."

Supporting u3a for years to come

The money raised by Sheryl and Clive will go towards enriching the lives of our members, expanding our offering of online learning opportunities and extending our reach. Our hope is a future where no one in later life needs to be lonely, as everyone can benefit from the u3a community.

Support u3a with a donation

Visit our fundraising page

u3a.org.uk/latest-news/u3a-run…

IGO News Extra April 2026

Hello IGO members. I hope you have enjoyed the Easter holiday period and are looking forward to some warm and dry weather as May approaches …. Please contact me if you have a question or an idea for a news item - interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk

Helen Titherington, Trust Volunteer – IGO News Extra Editor

New Groups

New Groups

• 
  
  • Learn Sign Language 3
  • Improv: long scene form
  • English - Chinese exchange
  • Nevil Shute Novels

Join all groups via Beacon

New Group – Learn sign language

An online course by british-sign.co.uk is used as the basis for this group. Members of the group sign up for the course.

A set of signs from the course is assigned to each meeting. Members learn these, and everyone makes the signs individually to the rest of the group who identify them.

2nd and 4th Mondays from 11.30am to 1pm.

Join via Beacon

New Group - Improv: long scene form

This group is suitable for those who have already attended my other Improv group here at Interest Groups Online for a while and who would like to progress further with with Long Form Improv. This will involve more scene work. This group will also be suitable for those with prior experience.

My other group (Improv) has now been running for a year and has become steadily more and more popular. So we now hold meetings there every single week. I recommend that you remain an active member of my other group also.

Meeting on 4th Sunday at 5.30pm

Rob, group leader

Join via Beacon

New Group - English - Chinese Exchange

The group will meet 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month at 9.30-10.30am

The aim of the group is to enable members to exchange their knowledge of English and Mandarin, and also to exchange their cultures. Helen, the group leader, will act as a "Cultural Bridge."

“I can provide a pure Mandarin environment for members and share the beauty of Chinese customs, local traditions, and our way of life. Whether we discuss festivals, traditional food, your own stories and daily life in the UK, or simply the small joys of our surroundings, I will listen with patience and respond with heart. I am just as eager to learn about your culture as I am to share mine!”

Join via Beacon

Potential Groups almost ready to take off

• American Politics
• Fashion and beauty
• Food and drink
• Presentation Skills
• Tennis news

Join via Beacon

Groups with spaces

Here are just a few examples view the full list on the website.

• What to watch - 3rd Wednesday
• Science and Technology - 1st Tuesday
• Read Write Discuss - 2nd Tuesday

Support for group leaders on IGO.

We are endlessly impressed with the talents of those who offer their time to run groups. However, we all need a bit of support from time to time, a chance to share ideas or share experiences of being in that leadership role.

There is a group on IGO called Group Leader Informal Meeting, which is run by two of the group leaders, and is a chance for peer-to-peer support. If you raise anything that needs attention, we can pass it on, and everyone can offer their experience.

The next meeting is on Monday 27th April at 4pm, and will last no more than one hour.

If you would like to be notified of the meetings, please join the group on Beacon.

Last chance to renew your IGO membership

If you intend to stay with IGO over the next year, make sure you renew your embership by the end of April. Non-renewals will be removed from groups at the end of the month.

If you receive a renewal reminder email on 23 April, this means that you have not yet renewed.

Click the link in the email to renew for 2026-27.

Quiz time

1. Who became Britains first Prime Minister in April 1721?
2. Where did Argentina invade in April 1982?
3. Who became the first person in space on 12th April 1961?
4. NATO was created in April 1949 - what do the letters stand for?
5. First published on the 13th April, 1953 what book was the first to feature James Bond aka 007

Answers at the end

u3a Missing Pieces

Missing Pieces is a collaborative learning activity where u3a members help uncover the stories behind historic buildings in their communities.

Inspired by Historic England’s national Missing Pieces project, this activity invites members to look beyond official records and explore the lived experiences, memories, and personal connections that bring listed buildings to life. Whether it’s a place you’ve passed every day, a building with a family connection, or one that’s quietly overlooked, your contribution can help build a richer, more human picture of our shared heritage.

To find out more visit the Missing Pieces webpage or come along to our opening online event on Thursday 23 April at 2pm, The Missing Pieces project: connecting people and place. Click here to book your place.

Crispy Tofu and Peanut Slaw

Ingredients

• 1 14-ounce block of extra-firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• ½ of a small green or red cabbage or ⅓ of a large cabbage (about 3 cups shredded, 180g)
• 2 to 3 medium carrots about 1 1/2 cups shredded, 120g
• ½ cup 6g cilantro, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 to 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 to 3 tablespoons water more as needed

Method

Pat dry the excess water from the block of tofu. Slice the tofu widthwise into ⅓ to ½-inch thick slices (about 10 slabs on a 14-ounce block). Dab with paper towels to get rid of some excess water.

Heat the 2 tablespoons of oil in a large nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu slices. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, gently moving them around the pan as needed to coat evenly in the oil, or until the bottom is golden browned. Stand back to avoid oil sputter. Using a spatula, flip the tofu and cook for 4 to 6 minutes on the other side.

Note: I find it helpful to use a large spatula and a smaller offset spatula or butter knife to flip the tofu.

Meanwhile, make the slaw. Shred the cabbage and carrots (using a mandoline, box grater, or food processor shredding disc). Transfer the cabbage and carrots to a large bowl, and add the cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sesame oil, lime juice, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and black pepper to taste. Pour the vinaigrette on top of the slaw and toss well to coat. Add a final squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of salt and pepper, if needed.

Pair this with a Bordeaux white - Calvet Prestige Sauvignon Blanc - Rosie’s suggestion from the Wine Appreciation Group

Tell us about your great group leader

We know, at Interest Groups Online, how vital our Group Leaders are, but we’d love to hear about them from you!

• Is your group leader amazing?
• How have they helped you to enjoy your group?

Please write a few lines about how they have made your time in the group really worthwhile and email interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk – help us celebrate our hard-working Group Leaders.

Naming yourself in Zoom

IGO group leaders need to see either your full name or your first name and membership number on your screen as you enter the zoom session. If your screen has a phrase like John’s iPad or similar please click 'Participants', hover over your name in the list and click the three dots to change your Zoom name.

Quiz Answers

1. Robert Walpole

2. Falklands

3. Yuri Gagarin

4. North Atlantic treaty organisation

5. Casino Royale

Back to Interest Groups Online Noticeboard

u3a.org.uk/what-we-do/learning…

At Barnet u3a, members meet together to learn the skills of origami and book binding. It's all guided by group leader Sam, who explains where the interest comes from and why it's so special to share it with others in a u3a group.

With the rustle and fold of the paper, the fabric and colourful designs, bookbinding and origami are excellent practices as we enter the third stage of our lives.

My own practice in these areas is not as a professional, but as someone who has been drawn to both from a young age. Transfixed by Robert Harbin’s TV show in the 1970’s, our home was full of children folding paper. As a young teacher in the late 80’s. I was taught to do simple bindings from a fellow teacher which I shared with the children I taught. In latter years, I have taken to more bookbinding as a way to re-connect with my body and enjoy the slowness of crafting. And since October, my home has been filled with u3a members taking steps along this path.

There are three distinct aims for the group:

• To introduce them to the art of bookbinding
• To connect with our body via our hands
• To spark creative endeavour that may have been lost or forgotten with the challenges of work and life

The principles of Wabi-Sabi

Our group is guided by Wabi-Sabi, a Japanese aesthetic and philosophical worldview. We follow the principles of:

• Imperfection: Accepting the flaws, these contribute to the beauty.
• Impermanence: We are working with paper and card, all subject to decay over time.
• Incompletion: We embrace the idea that nothing is ever truly finished.

Boxes created by the group

All about skill sharing

In line with the core values of u3a, each member brings their own experience into the group sessions. Whether that be their careers in planning, design or business, or their own creative endeavours such as printing, painting, or sewing.

u3a members holding their homemade notebooks

The results have been wonderful to witness: growing friendship and camaraderie in very mixed groups, members going off and pursuing longer courses in bookbinding, members sharing their own knowledge and taking the lead in newer projects. There are members who enjoy the community aspect of bookbinding and have researched places to visit in London. We have had two group visits to a central London stationers shop to find bookcloth and stunning chiyogami papers to decorate our books. I honestly could not have asked for a better group of people to connect with.

What the members say:

At the end of the first project I asked the group to give me feedback on what they enjoyed most. Here are a few comments:

"Our first session included some origami, and we then went on to produce our first notebook, replete with hard cover, spine, ribbon etc. What I can't get over is creating something which looks SO professional - I never thought I would have been able to produce something like this. Sam also organised a fascinating visit to a leading bookbinding shop in central London, and we spent hours looking at all the beautiful and varied paper they sold, plus all the equipment required for this craft. This newly created group is an excellent example of how effective and beneficial u3a is, and I have been delighted to be part of it." - Marie-Louise

"I had developed some bookbinding skills five years ago and had booked an intensive journal making course when COVID struck. I can no longer cope with intensive courses, I had given up hope of progressing. This group is small-scale, friendly and very supportive, generously and skilfully led by Sam in her own home, and enables everyone to succeed." - Carol

img src="https://www.u3a.org.uk/imges/news/2026/Blog/Barnet_u3a_members_with_their_selfbinded_books.png" alt="
u3a members holding their homemade notebooks
">

u3a members holding their homemade notebooks

"I joined the u3a bookbinding group to learn how to make a book. Under Sam’s patient guidance and within our group’s collaborative camaraderie, I experienced calming rituals of folding, cutting, sewing and glueing that developed into joy and pride as my book began to take shape. I have learned that the technique, the time and focus are just one part of the whole. As I look at my finished book, even before a word is entered on its blank pages, I seeI see it has a soul - a book remembers the hands that made it." - Jacek

It's great to teach our hands in our third age to bring beauty into the world. Beauty that we can then use to share our wisdom with others through writing, drawing or painting.

Discover endless opportunities in retirement with u3a.

Find your nearest u3a

u3a.org.uk/latest-news/bonding…