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

Back to Interest Groups Online Noticeboard

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…

Liz Ervine, u3a Council Representative for Scotland, shares an account of the recent u3a trip to the House of Lords.

The u3a movement took a step in raising its profile in Westminster last week, as u3a members from across the UK attended a special invitation visit to the House of Lords. The event formed part of the Third Age Trust's ongoing work to ensure that u3a expertise, particularly around positive ageing, is heard by policymakers in both Houses.

Each region and nation of the UK was allocated two places for the visit, so that a wide spread of the movement was represented.

We began the day with a guided tour of the Palace of Westminster, a truly magnificent part of our architectural heritage that represents the four nations of the UK.

After the tour, we gathered in the Attlee Room for a Q&A session with four members of the House of Lords. Representing a mix of political parties, the members all had an interest in lifelong learning, education and housing.

One continues to work part-time in a London state school. They wanted everyone to be encouraged to develop their full potential no matter their age.

u3a members listening to members of the House of Lords

During this session, we gained a deeper understanding of the role of the House of Lords and its 800 members. We learnt that the second chamber is needed to give proposed parliamentary bills proper scrutiny. Many peers play substantial roles on committees and support research teams. It was really interesting to hear how political change comes about through individuals coming together to act.

u3a Chair, Allan Walmsley, speaking at the u3a and House of Lords panel event

Over a sandwich lunch, we had more opportunities to talk to Lords, Baronesses, and the HoL Comms Team. Peers showed strong awareness of lifelong learning and enthusiasm for the work of u3a.

We then watched members of the House of Lords ask questions to the Government. It was a very civilised affair covering a range of interesting topics.

Next steps

During the day, a number of next steps were discussed. One proposal was the possibility of a House member becoming an ambassador for u3a in Westminster. This would enable u3a to contribute expertise in a range of ways on topics relating to positive ageing, nonformal learning, social isolation and other relevant policy areas.

It was a very positive, productive day, but shouldn't be seen as a standalone event. Instead, it's the beginning of a deeper relationship between u3a and Parliament. Strengthening this connection could help ensure the voices and experiences of older adults are better represented in national policy discussions.

The event certainly raised the profile of the u3a. Thanks to Harriet Radermacher and the u3a Policy Team for their work in supporting the event, and to the HoL Comms Team for their welcome and organisation.

For all of us who attended, the day was a classic example of learning and living and well worth the early start!

For me, it was a great privilege to share with others what the u3a movement is about and what it means to me and to others.

• 

  u3a member

  
  u3a members enjoyed learning about the House of Lords

• 

  In the chamber

  
  u3a members in the chamber

• 

  Members in the chamber

  
  u3a members in the chamber

• 

  Q&A session

  
  Q&A session with members of the House of Lords

• 

  Asking questions

  
  Members had the chance to ask questions

• 

  Baroness Bennett

  
  Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle talks to U3A members

Discover endless opportunities in retirement with u3a.

Find your nearest u3a

u3a.org.uk/latest-news/house-o…

Rhys, from Witney u3a's Welsh group, busts common myths about the Welsh language and shares the joys of learning Welsh in England.

How much do you know about Welsh? Let me guess:

• There's a severe shortage of vowels
• Welsh place names are unpronounceable
• Wales has the UK's longest place name
• It sounds 'gutteral' - like someone clearing their throat
• Most words in modern Welsh are borrowed from English, and Welsh is a dialect of English.

These are common beliefs, but only one of them is right!

Myth 1: Lack of vowels

Welsh actually has more vowels than English, because 'w' and 'y' are also vowels. So it has five vowels overall.

Myth 2: Hard to pronounce

Welsh is a phonetic language. Once you learn the rules, place names are easy, and spoken exactly how they're written - no exceptions. Unlike places like Gloucester, Leicester, Derby and Bicester...

Myth 3: Gutteral sounding

The beauty of language is a matter of taste. But few are more beautiful, in my view, than the one your mother spoke when she first talked to you.

Myth 4: Borrowed English words

Some words in Welsh are borrowed from English, but borrowing from a dominant language is a characteristic of minority languages the world over.

Welsh is certainly not a dialect of English. It's one of the family of Celtic languages which includes Scots Gallic, Irish (also known as Gaelic), Manx, Cornish and Breton. All of these languages are much older than English.

Tiles from a Welsh Scrabble set are ideal for learning vocabulary!

Myth 5: Longest place name in the UK

This one is actually true! The longest place name in the UK is Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. If you disentangle it, it all has meaning. But let's not forget that it was manufactured by the locals to attract Victorian tourists keen on photography and rail travel!

Members of Witney u3a's Welsh Group

Learning Welsh in England

Witney u3a has Welsh Group which is thriving. The members either want to experience Welsh having never spoken it before, or re-learn it having spent part of their childhood in Wales.

There are also some fluent speakers who want to keep their language alive and share its beauty with others.

Let these people speak for themselves:

First, from enthusiastic learners: "We’ve all had experience either of Wales, Cornwall or languages not encountered every day (such as Estonian). Hitherto, however, Welsh has been a bit of a closed book! This u3a Group, which covers both Welsh language and culture allows us to explore what Welshness means and learn this new language pretty much from scratch."

Next, from re-learners: “As I've grown older, my Welsh roots have started to tug, and I was delighted when the opportunity arose to revisit the language I've always regarded as my native tongue.”

And, finally, from our fluent speakers: “Need we say more than quote the last line of our national anthem: ‘O bydded i’r hen iaith barhau.’ (Google Translate is pretty good!)

Are there any u3a groups out there, I wonder, learning Gallic, Irish, Manx, Cornish or Breton?

Discover endless opportunities in retirement with u3a.

Find your nearest u3a

u3a.org.uk/latest-news/learnin…

At u3a, we know that it’s never too late to learn something new. But if you’ve never picked up an instrument before, it could seem daunting.

u3a member and Recorder Subject Adviser Val, gives her top tips for picking up a new instrument in later life and how to have fun and enjoy the process.

Why should you learn an instrument?

Other than being fun, there are so many benefits to playing an instrument for our health and wellbeing, particularly in later life.

• Brain health: music stimulates every part of your brain and playing an instrument is linked to better brain function and memory
• Feel good: playing releases endorphins and reduces stress
• Physical wellbeing: woodwind instruments can help your lung capacity while instruments like piano and ukulele can help with your physical dexterity
• Make friends: my friendship pool has trebled since I’ve been playing and I often see my recorder friends for meals out, not just playing music
• Sense of achievement: getting better at an instrument and making music is so rewarding!

Here is the advice I always suggest to beginners that will make learning a new instrument as simple and fun as possible.

1. Learn the basics

Many people feel put off learning an instrument if they can’t read music. But there are so many great online resources available to help you – just 10 minutes a day of practice is enough to get you learning and identifying notes in no time.

Some great places to start:

• Musictheory.net - a free website to get you started with the basics
• First Steps in Music Theory – a small, cheap guide to starting from ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)

2. Don't spend lots of money

You don’t need to go out and buy the most expensive instrument in the shop. Most instruments have affordable versions that are great for beginners while you’re getting used to it.

With recorders, plastic ones are much easier to clean than more expensive wooden ones that have to be sent off to be serviced. If you’ve joined a music group, see what other members use to help you choose what to buy.

3. Take advantage of free online music

You don’t need to buy lots of beginners’ books of sheet music – there’s a wealth of free music online.

Find YouTube videos and play along at home to practice rhythm and timing – don’t worry too much about finding the right notes at first!

There are even free metronome apps you can download on your phone or tablet to help keep you in time.

4. Make mistakes

Even the best professional musicians in the world still make mistakes. You will make mistakes so you don’t need to apologise for them or feel embarrassed. It’s all part of the learning process, and everyone who plays an instrument has been where you are now.

5. Relax and enjoy it!

With the recorder, you won’t be able to play properly if your hands and body are tight.

Learning an instrument takes time and you won’t become proficient immediately, so laugh through your mistakes and enjoy the process. Music is meant to be fun!

6. Join a group

Playing together is a great way to learn a new instrument as you’ll be supported by a group of people who have all been in your position. It’s also a great way to find camaraderie and friendship!

If your local u3a doesn't offer the instrument you're interested in, get involved online with a music group at Interest Groups Online. Or set up your own group - music Subject Advisers can help with this.

Take the next step

If you're interested in trying out the recorder, but don't know where to start, I offer five free online lessons for u3a members. Contact me to set this up.

Ready to join a group? Find a u3a music group near you - just search the instrument you'd like to play.

Discover endless opportunities in retirement with u3a.

Find your nearest u3a

u3a.org.uk/latest-news/learn-a…

Lancaster & Morecambe u3a member Pauline leads a 'MOTO' group which connects together members on their own for weekly socials, and to do one-off activities with others. She talks about how the group works and how it enables members to make new friendships.

How a MOTO group works

MOTO (Members On Their Own) started in late February 2022, and has steadily grown since then. The membership of the group hovers around 100.

We are a relaxed, member-driven group of individuals on their own - some are bereaved, some divorced, some are single by choice, and some have partners who cannot or do not want to socialise. All are people who want company occasionally. Some folk are regulars, and form a solid friendship group, with some meeting up independently. Others only come occasionally, and others tell me they can’t come but want to get my weekly emails as it keeps them informed, and they know if they need a lifeline we are there. This group provides a way of finding a new community for those on their own.

Sunday socialising

Most Sunday afternoons we have a ‘drop-in’, [attendance not compulsory!], alternately in Lancaster and Morecambe areas, sometimes in a nearby village. Sunday afternoons can be challenging for folk on their own - everyone else seems to be with friends or family. MOTO provides an easy casual way of getting company, a chat, a reason for some to get dressed.

Facilitating friendships

We have other ‘happenings’ and gatherings as members suggest, and sometimes organise, ways in which they would like to meet and enjoy company. So far members have linked up for cinema, theatre and concert visits, dog walking, a garden party and several lunches! We welcome all suggestions - if a member wants to arrange something we will circulate the information for them.

For those with Smartphones we have a WhatsApp group that enables members to contact each other spontaneously without waiting for our facilitators to pass on messages.

It is all very relaxed and friendly, and our facilitators, Pauline, Sue and Ruth, strive to enable members to enjoy meeting new friends. There is no longer a need to do everything on your own – other members might like to join you. No-one is a stranger – just friends you haven’t met yet.

Find community through shared interests

Find your nearest u3a

u3a.org.uk/latest-news/lancast…

IGO March 26 News Extra

There’s plenty happening on IGO this month! We’ve just launched lots of groups for members to explore and get involved in — so do take a look and join the conversations.

A quick reminder that the membership renewal period ends on 31 March, so please don’t forget to renew to keep enjoying everything IGO has to offer.

And finally, we’d love to hear from you — send us your news and updates by email so we can share them with the community in future newsletters: interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk

Helen Titherington, Trust Volunteer — IGO News Extra Editor

New groups and potential groups

New Groups

• Black History
• Professional Cycling Fans
• Carbon Footprint Personal Matters
• Shared reading
• Psychedelic basement
• What to Watch
• New Canva Groups x2
• NotebookLM Mutual Support Group

Potential Groups

• 
  
  • Current Affairs - new group
  • Russian for Beginners

Join all groups via Beacon

New group – black history

Frank, Group leader says, Black History is important at all kinds of levels from the individual, personal to the global. It is a huge area so we in the group will have to work out collectively what we want to choose to share and explore.

Join via Beacon

New group – professional cycling fans

Janet Group Leader says, Do you follow professional cycling?

Perhaps you watch major road races, such as the Tour de France, or one-day classics like Paris-Roubaix or Strade Bianche. Following the road racing calendar through the year, we will preview races and discuss results. We'll talk about riders, teams and tactics. Group members might wish to lead on specific topics and guest speakers will occasionally attend as well.

Maybe you are new to watching pro-cycling and want to find out more about this fascinating sport. How does a cycling team work together to win races?

You are welcome to join the group - no bike needed!

Join via Beacon

New group – carbon footprint personal matters

The group will help us avoid the frustrations we can have when we try to reduce the carbon emissions that we are personally responsible for. This includes evaluating the options, managing the required changes and adjusting to the new technology that we may have adopted.

Examples are a home insulation project, a heatpump installation, solar panels, a battery electric vehicle, a home energy storage, etc.

As our government embarks on a very fast process of decarbonisation, much information is being made available, as well as significant support including financial.

So this group would need core members that have taken some steps and could share their journey to help others.

It could be a series of sessions that others that have personal examples that they would like to share could present on. The idea would be to learn how individuals were able to take charge and change something significant, while avoiding drastic or painful lifestyle changes.

And potentially the sessions could allow some time for a surgery style q&a.

Join via Beacon

New group – shared reading

A Shared Reading group brings people together to read aloud, reflect, and discuss literature in real time, creating a warm, inclusive space for connection and conversation. Inspired by initiatives like those run by the Derby Book Festival, this format welcomes participants of all backgrounds to engage with short stories, poems, or excerpts from longer works, guided by a facilitator who reads aloud and gently steers discussion.

Join via Beacon

New group – psychedelic basement

A group to explore psychedelic music from the 1960s to the present day, maybe also looking at films featuring the music and literature around the subject. Group members will nominate tracks to listen to, possibly on a pre-arranged theme which might be particular performers, producers, instruments, time periods, genres of music, countries or whatever the group decides on. Let's see where it goes!

Join via Beacon

New groups – Canva

A new Canva Project group and a new Canva course group have been set up as there are lots of people waiting. There is also room for new members.

Join via Beacon

–

New groups – what to watch

This is a group to discuss/share interesting programmes group members have come across. May include TV, radio, podcasts, movies, other? Hoping to make it informal and fun.

Editor comment: Here are my recent watches

• TV – only connect; politics live; newsnight
• NETFLIX – series, the beast in me, homeland - still only on series 5 of 8
• SKY SPORTS – tennis, Katie Boulter in Merida Mexico; darts Bunting winning on Thursday night in Belfast
• YOUTUBE – Mick Miller, comedian Jamie Oliver’s recipes
• PODCAST – the rest is politics
• Wish list for films – Nuremberg starring Russell Crowe and I Swear

Join via Beacon

New group – NotebookLM mutual support group

The informal mutual self help and support group, for users of Google NotebookLM and those creators and members who look to be. It is for anyone who provides research, content and material for their groups.

This group communicates through a private WhatsApp group, helping each other by sharing ideas, learning, knowledge, solutions, developing best use and anything that can improve the quality of created resources.

NotebookLM – a powerful and readily mastered Google app – will readily produce audio overviews, animated video overviews, mind maps, subject reports, flash cards, quizzes, infographics, slide decks (converting to PowerPoint) and data tables, on any theme – for this type of use it is free – subscription options are available, and considered unnecessary for the purposes outlined here - is cloud based and does not require use of the user’s device for the processing.

Those interested will be asked to briefly outline current and/or proposed use of NotebookLM.

Join via Beacon

Groups with spaces

• AI Agitators
• Apple devices, users
• Armchair Travellers
• Armchair archeology
• Climate matters
• Coffee and conversation

• Digital skills
• Geology
• Editing Wikipedia
• Exploring Classical music
• Exploring Prog rock
• Family life before 1538

For further information and to join a group visit the Beacon Members Portal.

It is time to renew your IGO membership

As the IGO membership year comes to a close on 31 March, we kindly ask all members to renew their membership before this date to ensure their place in their group is secured for the coming year.

Renewing on time helps us confirm group numbers and keep sessions running smoothly for everyone. Members who do not renew before the deadline may unfortunately lose their place in their current group, and their space may be offered to someone on the waiting list.

If your membership is not renewed by 31 March and you later wish to rejoin, you may need to join the waiting list again, and places will be offered as they become available.

To avoid any disruption and to guarantee your place, please make sure your membership renewal is completed before the end of March. To renew, please log in to the Beacon portal and click 'Renew your membership' at the top of the blue list at the bottom of the page.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to another great year together at IGO.

u3a and me survey

We’d like to invite you to take part in a national u3a survey exploring what u3a means to you and how being part of u3a has shaped your experience.

We recognise that some questions in the survey focus on local u3as and may not apply directly to everyone involved in Interest Groups Online. Please don’t let that put you off — your perspective is just as important. This survey is part of a wider effort to understand the many different ways members engage with u3a, including online, nationally, and locally.

By sharing your experiences, you’ll be helping us build a fuller picture of how u3a supports connection, learning, and community across its whole membership. The insights gathered will be used to grow membership, demonstrate u3a’s impact, and raise the charity’s profile.

You can take the survey here: surveymonkey.com/r/u3a-me

As a thank you for your time, participants will be entered into a prize draw to win a £100 John Lewis voucher. The survey closes on 31 March.

Thank you very much for your support.

Quiz time

1. What happens to the river in Chicago on 17th March each year?
2. In March 1834 the Tolpuddle martyrs were sentenced to deportation to Australia - what was their offence?
3. Which theoretical physicist was born in Germany 14th March 1879 and became an American citizen in 1940?
4. In March 1956 the then Queen laid the foundation stone of which new cathedral?
5. Who became the first British PM in April 1721?
6. Name the titles of the 5 Beatles’ songs which filled the first 5 places in the US Singles chart on 4th April 1964?

Answers at the end

• 400g/14oz spaghetti
• 150–200g/5½–7oz kale, large stalks removed and roughly chopped
• 100g/3½oz salted, roasted peanuts
• 1–2 garlic cloves, to taste
• 4 tbsp finely grated Grana Padano, Parmesan or vegetarian alternative, plus extra to serve
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method

1. Cook the spaghetti according to packet instructions in a saucepan of boiling, lightly salted water. Drain, reserving some of the pasta cooking water, and return the pasta to the saucepan.
2. Meanwhile, place the kale, peanuts and garlic in a blender or food processor and blitz until very finely chopped. Add the cheese, olive oil and a ladle of the pasta cooking water to the blender and whizz again to make a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Mix the pesto into the spaghetti and stir over a medium heat for 1–2 minutes until the sauce has warmed through. Divide between bowls and serve with extra cheese and a good grinding of black pepper.

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.

Quiz Answers

1. The river is dyed Green for St Patrick’s Day

2. Forming a Trade Union

3. Albert Einstein

4. Coventry Cathedral

5. Robert Walpole

6. Please please me/ I want to hold your hand/ She loves you/ Twist and shout/ Can’t buy me love

Back to Interest Groups Online Noticeboard

u3a.org.uk/what-we-do/learning…

IGO News Extra February 26

We’ll all be hoping for a happy 😊 Valentine’s Day. Let’s hope too the spring 🌷 flowers emerge to brighten our lives. Please send all comments and articles to interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk.

Helen Titherington, Trust Volunteer – IGO News Extra Editor

New Groups

New Groups

• Russian reading and conversation 2
• Spanish beginners 2
• What to watch
• Poetry and mindfulness practice
• Opera appreciation

Potential Groups

• American politics

Join all groups via Beacon.

Potential groups ready to get started

These potential groups have more than 10 members and as such will be ready to get started over coming weeks – please visit the Beacon members portal to join and be thinking about whether you could help organise sessions, how often you would want the sessions to take place and how you would want the session to run etc.

• Black history
• Map reading
• Neville Shute novels
• Tennis news

New potential group – American politics

Join via Beacon

MEGutsell, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Groups with spaces - join now

In recent times 21 groups have formed from original ideas arising from potential groups – here’s a selection of these groups with some spaces still available

• Geology, 4th Tuesday
• Opera appreciation, 2nd Thursday
• Poetry and mindfulness, 3rd Monday
• Russian reading and conversation 2, tba
• Science and technology, 1st Monday
• Virtual walks, 4th Tuesday
• What to watch, 3rd Wednesday
• Wine appreciation, 1st Thursday
• World history, 3rd Thursday

Please visit Beacon to join.

IGO Chess club

The IGO Chess Club meets 10:00 2nd and 4th Fridays during the winter months (October-March), excepting December when there is no meeting. In summer (April-September) meetings may be 2nd or 4th Fridays only, or there may be a summer holiday, depending on member demand.

In addition to playing friendly chess games, we also examine interesting puzzles, grandmaster games and instructive videos. The group is not intended for beginners. A typical member has played little chess since school days but is interested in taking up the game on retirement. New members are always welcome.

Please visit Beacon to join.

Great group leaders

I’m in Sandra W’s Group Writing Compelling (Non) Fiction. She has great ideas for our ‘homework’ pieces, and she offers valuable and constructive observations on our scribbles. I really enjoy our monthly two-hour sessions.

⭐️🌟⭐️

George P

I d like to say a huge thank you to Gordon R, who does a marvellous job for us in both the Fusion Tai Chi Qong and Apple device classes.

Always well prepared with great back up and study material, it has been hugely helpful for me.

⭐️🌟⭐️

Thank you, David C, a group member

Me – lead a u3a group? But I'm only a beginner myself!

I have been a u3a member of the Beginners Family History group for just under a year. The leader, Dawn, was amazing. She had both extensive knowledge and experience. However, as we all know, life sometimes throws us curve balls. Dawn had to resign as both leader and member of the group. She left such enormous shoes to fill.

So what happens now? I volunteered to facilitate the next meeting just to find out if between us we could keep the group going. Was there anyone who felt they could take on the leadership?

As you maybe able to surmise from the title of the article we all felt we couldn’t do it. After all we were ALL beginners.

But, after a very interactive meeting, we came to the conclusion that we all had much to learn but we also all had much to offer. We came up with a list of topics we would be interested in and agreed to “give it a go”. So I agreed to take it on with the understanding that being a fulltime carer for my 94 year old Mum I too may have my challenges some months.

Dawn passed my name on to the u3a group co-ordinator who set me up on the Beacon site as an administrator for the group. Once logged on I was amazed at just how much instant support was available on the site.

I managed to email all the group members through Beacon to adhere to data protection regulations as I wanted to find out if people wanted to stay or if life had changed for them too. If they no longer wanted their place it would free up space for some from the wait list to join us. I also attached the schedule for the next six months and managed to update the members Beacon site too.

I had some people who wanted to leave as life had changed for them and others who had not attended for a while to come back and join us.

So the answer is yes. I can be a beginner in the subject and be a leader of the group too. It won’t be the same but our plan is now to put into practice what Dawn taught us, share that knowledge with “Newbies” and learn from each other. Which is what u3a is all about.

Sara

Quiz time

1. Tyne Daly was born on 21/2/45 in which American police drama did she star?
2. On what date in February every year is Candlemas celebrated?
3. On 3/2/64 73 million Americans tuned in to watch the Ed Sullivan show - what was the draw?
4. What colour is Amethyst the February birth stone?
5. Johnny Cash was born 26/2/32 was he a Pisces or Aquarius?
6. Who became the leader of the Conservative Party on 11/2/75?
7. Who was the author of Twenty thousand Leagues under the sea born 8/2/1828?
8. The first large deposits of Amethyst were discovered in the early 19th century in which South American Country?
9. Which country is hosting the Winter Olympics in February this year?
10. Which large arctic animal is celebrated with an International Day on 27th February?

Answers at the end

A royal achievement: IGO research to be published

We are delighted to share some wonderful news from one of our IGO groups.

The session, “Which King’s English?” by IGO group English: the first 4000 years, has led to the forthcoming publication of their research in Studies in English Language Teaching (ISSN 2329-311X, Online), Vol. 14, No. 1, March 2026.

The article, “Lawman’s Brut – Old English Reconstructed,” by Ed Conduit, Sally Dickinson, Patricia Warren and the Class of 25/26, is the result of real dedication, lively discussion, and impressive collaborative scholarship.

The study explores Brut, a medieval account of King Arthur and a long line of English kings. It looks at the kind of English the author was aiming to write, the challenges he faced, and how his work influenced later historical writing in England. The research also places the text in its historical moment, helping us better understand why it mattered at the time — and why it still matters today for students of English language history.

This publication is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the hard work, insight, and teamwork of everyone involved.

Congratulations to Ed, Sally, Patricia, and the brilliant Class of 25/26 on this well-deserved success!

Opening our doors: IGO fair attracts 1,056 attendances across 10 inspiring sessions

The IGO Fair (11–13 February) was a fantastic success, designed to open our doors and welcome new people into the IGO community. Across 10 lively and engaging sessions, we recorded an impressive 1,056 attendances — a strong sign of interest from those keen to discover what IGO has to offer.

The fair created a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience the range, energy, and expertise within our groups, and to see first-hand how they could get involved.

A huge and heartfelt thank you goes to our incredible group leaders who so generously gave their time, skills, and enthusiasm to bring each session to life. Your commitment and passion were key to making the IGO Fair such a success and to inspiring others to become part of our community.

Please could we also say a special welcome to new members who have joined us as a result of the fair!

Moules marinieres

Ingredients

• 1.75kg/4lb mussels
• 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 15g/½oz butter
• a bouquet garni of parsley, thyme and bay leaves
• 100ml/3½fl oz dry white wine or cider
• 120ml/4fl oz double cream
• handful of parsley leaves, roughly chopped

1. Wash the mussels under plenty of cold, running water. Discard any open ones that won't close when lightly squeezed.
2. Pull out any tough, fibrous beards protruding from between the tightly closed shells and then knock off any barnacles with a large knife. Give the mussels another quick rinse to remove any little pieces of shell.
3. In a very large pan (ideally big enough to take all the mussels and only be half full), gently fry the garlic and shallots in the butter with the bouquet garni. Cook over a low heat until the shallots are soft and translucent.
4. Add the mussels and wine (or cider). Turn up the heat, then cover with a lid and steam for 3–4 minutes. Give the pan a good shake every now and then. The mussels should open, discard any that stay closed.
5. Remove the bouquet garni. Add the cream and chopped parsley and remove from the heat.
6. Spoon into four large warmed bowls and serve with lots of crusty bread for mopping up the delicious sauce.

Renoir, Les pecheuses de moules a Berneval

Leaving a group

If you have joined a group, but decided is not for you, could you please leave the group using the Members Portal. You don't need to let the group leader know as Beacon will do this. And please don't ask to be removed as this creates another admin task - we need to be kind to group leaders!

Group leaders are volunteers

All of our group leaders are volunteers and deserve to be treated with respect. Please remember this during group sessions and in all your communications - especially when starting a new group!

Quiz Answers

1. Cagney and Lacey
2. 2nd Feb
3. The Beatles
4. Purple
5. Pisces
6. Margaret Thatcher
7. Jules Verne
8. Brazil
9. Italy
10. Polar bear

Back to Interest Groups Online Noticeboard

u3a.org.uk/what-we-do/learning…

IGO January 26 News Extra

Happy New Year everyone – settle down, enjoy a cuppa in the comfort of your own home and enjoy taking part in your favourite online groups. Don't forget that we always want to hear from IGO members and the activities in their groups – email interestgroupsonline@u3a.org.uk to find out more.

Helen Titherington, Trust Volunteer – IGO News Extra Editor

New Groups

New Groups

• 
  
  • Health Matters in Later Life

Potential Groups

• Tennis

Join all groups via Beacon

New Group – Health Matters in Later Life

This group is about discussing the basics of some common health conditions, focusing on causes, presentations, preventions and management.

Members may present/lead sessions themselves if they wish, with the group leader's support.

Examples of conditions that may be discussed are Arthritis, Bowel problems, Cancer, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Dementia, Depression and anxiety, Diabetes, Eye health, Hearing loss, High blood pressure and other conditions that members may want to consider. All are welcome.

3rd Friday 11 am – 12.30 pm

Join via Beacon

Potential Group – Tennis

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.

Join via Beacon

Spaces Available – Egyptology

In this group we will journey through more than 5000 years, from the earliest settlements along the Nile to its apex in the New Kingdom, its conquest by foreign powers and its rise as a Greek-run powerhouse to the more 'recent' times when Egypt became a Roman province.

Along the way, we'll look at beliefs, technologies, society, art, and the evidence for the everyday life of ordinary people as well as the ruling elites. You will learn how archaeologists and Egyptologists piece together evidence, and how collecting evidence has changed over time. The impact of climate change and examples of how natural resources were managed will be a thread running throughout.

Sessions will comprise illustrated talks during which discussion and questions are welcomed, and members are all welcome to suggest specific topics that capture their individual interest. No prior knowledge is required – what matters most is curiosity and a willingness to join in and ask questions.

Join via Beacon

The IGO Fair 11-13 February

The IGO fair takes place over the 11, 12 and 13 February and is open to all u3a member and non-members. Here’s what’s on:

11th February tasters are:

• Creative Writing 10 am
• Exploring Prog Rock 11.30 am
• Sign Language 1.30 pm
• Fusion Tai Qi Gong 3 pm

12th February tasters are:

• Local History 10 am
• Intermediate Recorders 11.30 am
• Dance Exercise 1.30 pm
• Setting up new groups 3 pm

13th February tasters are:

• Canva 10 am
• Early Women Doctors 11.30 am

The full timetable and all links can be found in the document attached to the News Extra email. Please feel free to pass on the links to your friends and family who can attend for free and without booking. If you would like to share with your local u3a please send on the link to the Online Learning Events page where members can book a place.

Quiz time

1. Who was born on 25 January in 1759 and is the object of celebratory suppers held annually through the world on this day
2. How old was Queen Elizabeth 1st when crowned in January 1559?
3. In January 1912 captain Scott reached the South Pole but which country’s polar explorers had beaten him to it by a month?
4. In January of what year saw the first regular trans-Atlantic shipping service begin between Liverpool and New York?
5. This sculptor was born on 10 January 1903 – nowadays her work is celebrated in a new exhibition space in Wakefield. Can you name her?
6. In January 1918, women were given the right to vote, but only women over what age?
7. What flower is at the top of this page?

Answers at the end

Great Group Leader

I would like to tell you how much I appreciate our Latin Group Leader Robert Hodge.⭐️🌟⭐️

I studied Latin when I was at school and enjoyed it but once I left school and joined the rat race of life and family I never really thought about it again. When I retired 2 years ago and was looking for activities and hobbies to take up I never dreamt that Latin would be one of them. I started the beginners class and never realised how much of my brain has lay dormant for over 50 years and how much pleasure I get when I can still remember a word or conjugation from then!

Robert runs several (many) classes tirelessly and just seems to enjoy sharing his knowledge of the ancient world and language with us.

Thank you so much. Please do not give up on us !!

Regards, Jennifer, group member

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.

Quiz Answers

1. Rabbie Burns

2. 25

3. Norway

4. 1818

5. Barbara Hepworth

6. 30

7. The winters flowers featured are Cyclamen

Back to Interest Groups Online Noticeboard

u3a.org.uk/what-we-do/learning…