March 2014 Monthly bulletin
Report on the February Meeting Alison Chapman - Kilworth House Theatre
Alison worked for the Haymarket Theatre prior to joining Mrs Mackay, at the very beginning. It all started when Mrs Cynthia Mackay was in Bridlington in 1992 and she had a dream that she would like to build her own theatre. In 1999, Celia and husband Richard bought Kilworth House with some 38 acres of land and restored the House to open the Hotel in 2000 and start getting funds to finance the theatre project. They applied for and were ultimately awarded planning permission to build a permanent theatre with a Proscenium Arch, but in order to raise money and get an idea of what audiences they might attract, they decided to build a temporary open air theatre whilst waiting for permission.
And so the current theatre as we know it was built. They were careful to protect the wildlife (badgers, owls, voles etc.) as they cleared the site. It was awarded the New Building of 2006 and 2 other awards by the Campaign to protect Rural England. On 5th June 2007 Adam Watkiss’ production of “Pirates of Penzance” opened the Theatre. There were 26 performances that first year, and subsequently One Night shows with artistes including The Hollies, Ken Dodd and the Kilworth production of the Opera Show were added to the repertoire. The latter was so popular that it was taken on an international tour. At La Scala, Milan, they were given a standing ovation. S great accolade.
Now all the productions get sold out, and the Telegraph have called it “The Best Kept secret of the Theatre world.” It costs around £350,000 to put on each musical production, and Kilworth aims only to ‘break even’, so keeping ticket prices down. The shows are seen as good publicity for The Hotel and Restaurant, which indeed they are.
Each year auditions and rehearsals for the forthcoming shows are held in London, though crucially the cast are sent their footwear well in advance so that they can ‘wear them in’. Ten days prior to the opening night, the cast come to Kilworth and are welcomed in hospitality suite, ‘The Staging Post’. They are well looked after, and local people put up the singers and actors in the B&B tradition of Theatre Landladies. This has proved very successful, and many friendships have resulted.
All the sets and props are imaginatively designed and most made at Kilworth. For example, the ears of corn for Oklahoma were made by wrapping bubble wrap around kitchen roll middles, and then painting them yellow. Also many of the clothes and props are purchased from Charity shops. The Theatre has a capacity of 550 seats now, and has held some 98 performances. The total audience figure is in excess of 50,000., and it has become known worldwide , with audiences coming from London, France, USA and other places as well as many local people.
Aren’t we lucky to have Kilworth House Theatre on our doorstep!
A MESSGAGE FROM EDDIE
Looking ahead!
I will be ending my period as Chairman at the Annual General Meeting to be held in March having covered the maximum period of three years stipulated in the U3A’s Constitution. It has been a very enjoyable experience but it is now time for me to move over and allow someone else the privilege of continuing the process of taking the organisation forward.
I am making a plea, therefore, for a member or members to consider taking up the baton and putting their name(s) forward for election. The past three holders of the office have been men so is it, maybe, time for a female Chair? Who knows? The decision is yours.
If you might be interested but would like more information please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be more than happy to assist. Eddie Hemsley,
Legs 4 Africa
Did you know that thousands of prosthetic limbs are thrown
away every year in the UK?
Neither did Tom until he went to Gambia! There he met a man who had lost his leg. Back in the UK, he arranged to have a leg made and delivered it to the delighted man. Realising there were many amputees over there, Tom wanted to do more. He found that used prosthetic legs are just thrown away here! Since then he has delivered 18 more limbs to Gambia. His latest plan is to take 200 legs by van. There will be some spare room. If you have any unwanted disability aids, mobile phones or items which might benefit local children (dictionaries, stationery, pencils, activity books etc) they would be very welcome. Tom also desperately needs money to help fund the operation, so if you would like to donate to this worthy cause, please go to www.crowdfunder.co.uk/legittoafrica
Also Tom would welcome the experience and knowledge of others - this scheme is in its infancy. Maybe you have links with organisations or businesses which could offer assistance, or perhaps you have helped with a similar project and may be able to suggest ideas and strategies. He can be contacted at legs4africa.org
Tom Williams comes from Arnesby, and is a rather extraordinary young man! If you have any items for delivery please contact Sue Hill on 01455553369
GROUP REPORTS
(in alphabetical order)
BOOK CHAT
Co-ordinator
Mick Curtis
01455 554504
A Street Cat Named Bob: How One Man and His Cat Found Hope on the Streets by James Bowen (a recovering drug addict) but most likely by a ghost writer,but whoever did write this"True Story"obviously has his eye on television and/or a film. He has managed to stretch very little into a full-length tome. It may be of interest to anyone who knows nothing of sheltered housing, drug addition and the pains of withdrawal from drug dependancy, street life and petty officials or the logistics behind The Big Issue, but to have managed to make it popular enough to sell so well and be in every public library is no mean achievement given such a thin read. Again our group was split, although the majority did enjoy the antics of Bob.
*************ANOTHER NEW EATING GROUP!!***************
BUFFET SUPPER CLUB
Co-ordinator
Ann Hetherington
01455 203498
ann@netcomz.com
The first get-together of this group will be on the 12th March at Ann’s house. We have eleven folks interested & we hope for a most enjoyable evening. The 9th April will then be organized, so ring Ann for details if you would like to join us. Each person contributes a dish to the meal & brings their own drink.
The frequency of this Supper is each 2nd Weds. per month. Time is 7pm- 10.30pm
CYCLING GROUP
Co-ordinator
Nigel Bones
01455 209756
Now that spring is here, it’s time to polish up those bicycle clips and start thinking about cycling. There will be a meeting of the cycle group on the 27th March at 12:30 pm in The Hollybush Inn, Ashby Parva, for a spot of lunch and to discuss the programme for the year. If anyone is interested in joining us, please contact Nigel Bones.
ETHNIC EATING
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
Wednesday 26th February a small group of eight went to Rossini, Ristorante Italiano at 38 Coventry Road, Hinckley (almost opposite the Hinckley Leisure Centre) where we ordered the Party Menu. We all had Starters and without exception thought they were well-presented and a good size. As for the Main Courses, they were equally well-presented and served with ample vegetables etc. The sauces were particularly good. Only five of the party could manage the Desserts, where the Tiramisu were layered vertically in a glass – unusual - and one man went for the Italian Bread and Butter Pudding (a new one to us). All in all – a very successful evening.
Wednesday 26th March – We are going for a “Moroccan” Menu at “La Margherita” - central Rugby – round the corner from the Clock Tower and just past the Parish Church, with a municipal Car Park nearby.
Wednesday 23rd April – St George’s Day and Shakespeare’s “Official” Birthday (his 450th!) – I am trying to arrange something “Special” and local!
Also there is the possibility of arranging a Live Jazz Evening at Summersault Vegetarian Restaurant in Rugby - they change their Menu weekly but have a choice of 3 Starters, 3 Mains and 10 Puddings! Enter www.summersault.ltd.uk/Jazz_menu.html - to view a Specimen Menu. Note – only on Friday evenings
Look out for the sheets at today’s meeting or ring/e-mail me as soon as possible.
FRENCH CONVERSATION
Co-ordinator
Sue Hicks
01858 880273
27 February 2014
We had an identification challenge in French involving some herbs and spices. Then there was a translation and discussion on La Chandeleur, a festival celebrated with pancakes in France, which was on 2 February. Shrove Tuesday will be on 4 March. Pearl gave us some tips for making pancakes. After a discussion about St Valentine’s day, we continued with more general conversation. The next meeting will be on 27 March.
GARDEN GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sue Creeden
01455 557888
23 members took a pleasant stroll around Coton Manor for our February meeting. The snowdrops and hellebores were out in abundance and the gardens were looking particularly delightful as we walked in the winter sunshine. Afterwards we all enjoyed a warm and welcome cuppa in the café.
Our March meeting will be a talk by Mick Cross on growing and showing Dahlias. We will meet at his home, Woodcroft, Ashby Lane, Bitteswell on Tuesday evening, 25th March (so that he can show us his greenhouses and demonstrate how to take cuttings, etc.) The session will start at 7.00 p.m. and be approximately an hour, followed by light refreshments. If you would like to come, please telephone me on the above number or email sueandpeter.creeden@talktalk.net
GARDEN LUNCHES
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
email grahjill@hotmail.com
Tuesday 18 February 2014 – Palmers of Ullesthorpe. As usual with Palmers, a warm welcome and a varied choice. I am afraid I got the “Coffee & Cake” details wrong and it was only available after 2 pm and you had to have a print-out of the Coupon. If there is a suitable Special Offer on the Palmers Card, I will try to put details on your Reminder Slips.
Tuesday 9th April 2014 – Woodlands Nursery & Garden Centre, Ashby Road, Stapleton LE9 8JE
Tel 01455 291494
They have a Lakeland outlet (Tel 01455 293527), so if there is an item you want, you can probably ring them in advance to request the product and save on postage
GERMAN CONVERSATION
Co-ordinator
Sue Hicks
01858 880273
January and February 2014
Both meetings were cancelled owing to lack of numbers. I have reluctantly decided to discontinue this group after 2½ years as it is no longer viable.
Many thanks to those who have supported me in the past. Sue
LIVELY DISCUSSION
Co-ordinator
Dot Barnard
01455 208190
dot.barnard@uwclub.net
February Report 10th February 2014
Does Valentine’s Day mean anything?
It seems that there were 3 St Valentines, but the one who is thought to have started the romantic link is St Valentine who was martyred in 270AD. Emperor Claudius wanted only single young men for soldiers as he thought that if there were no wives or children to think about they would be free to fight. However a priest called Valentine carried out secret weddings and lost his life on February 14th because of this. The oldest known verses come from the middle ages. In 1375, Chaucer in his ‘Parliament of Fools’ mentioned February 14th as the day when humans and birds find their mates. The oldest known valentine was sent by the Duc d’Orleans in 1415. The British Library has one from the battle of Agincourt and Henry V is known to have sent a valentine note to Catherine de Valois. There was also a Pope Valentine 827AD and a female. St Valentina 308AD. The sending of cards and verses became very popular in Victorian times and these days most valentine cards are sent by males in the 16 – 30 age group. In fact men of all ages buy more valentine cards than cards at any other time of year.
Everyone in the group deplored the over commercialisation of Valentine’s Day. Some felt that choosing to do something unusual for your partner was more romantic. Although some still send lovely or amusing cards and keep them too. The red rose is the symbol of love, yet they aren’t in season here or many other countries! 100 million roses are flown round the world for this market. The carbon footprint and poor working conditions for workers in South America, where most come from, are very worrying. We were also concerned about young people, especially girls for whom this is a very stressful time if they don’t receive at least one card. This can be compounded by the on-line bullying which is prevalent now Over-spending on subsequent weddings which leave huge debts was also a concern. ‘Births, Deaths and Marriages’ shown on ITV, featured a couple in casual clothes, asking passers-by to be their witnesses at the shortest legal ceremony possible. On balance Valentine’s day still means something to many of us.
Apparently experiencing mutual fear helps romance along far more than spending a fortune on Valentine’s cards and presents. And finally Casanova said ‘Love is three quarters curiosity.’
April Topic Can a free press be entirely faultless?
POETRY GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sylvia Hitchen
0116 247 8353
Sylvia.hitchen@btinternet.com
The poetry group met at the new time of 2.00pm. The themes for the afternoon were "Winter" and "Valentine's Day" however participants were also invited to throw anything else they fancied into the mix. We read and discussed poems by Walter de la Mare, Edward Thomas, John Betjeman, Robert Frost and Roger McGough (of Lily the Pink fame) among others. We were treated to wonderful images of Winter seascapes and landscapes, snow and birds and deer, and all spiced up with some off theme poems on warmer weather and cats and dogs.
The next get together will be on March 27th at 2.00pm with a (non compulsory) theme of landscapes.
PUB LUNCHES
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
email grahjill@hotmail.com
Wednesday 5 February – Lunch at the Elms went off fairly well. Most people ordered the Carvery and went up for it as soon as it was available but the member who had ordered something different got her lunch late through a misapprehension with the staff. Something I will have to watch out for.
Wednesday 5 March – Back to The Brewery – At one point 30 members signed up for this Lunch, but illness and clashing appointments whittled the number down to to 24. Report next month
Wednesday 2 April - The Shires, Peatling Parva – not far to drive and plenty of space and choice.
SUNDAY SPECIALS
Our first venture was to The Royal Oak at Bitteswell on Sunday 23rd March. Report next month.
Watch this space for what we might do next! One suggestion is visiting Open Gardens in The Yellow Book – especially those that provides meals! Any other ideas welcome – National Trust or Historic Houses.
SNAIL’S PACE WALKING GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sheila Eggleton
01455 554387
sheilaeggleton@yahoo.co.uk
March 21st 2014
Our next Walk will be led by Dot and will start from Dunton Bassett Country Primary School, The Mount, Dunton Bassett LE17 5JL. We will meet at Dot’s opposite the school (Number 3 Mount View, The Mount). The walk will commence at 11.30a.m. Some of you may have already done part of this walk with Dot but it had to be curtailed because of the heat and a number of people missed it for a variety of reasons, which is why we have decided to put this walk on the programme a second time. The walk does involve a couple of stiles and you are advised to have waterproof footwear. Dot has kindly offered refreshments at her home at the end of the walk for a donation to the Air Ambulance.
February 21st
We followed a heritage trail around Kibworth Harcourt which turned out to be very interesting. It introduced us to the wide range of architectural jewels in this part of Kibworth, many of the buildings are now listed because of their historical status. Walking along what is now Main Street we saw cottages which had once been the local bakery, butchers and blacksmiths. It was fascinating to observe one splendid home which would once, judging by the blocked up windows, have been four dwellings. Kibworth had in its time an abundance of local inns and it was to one of those which remains that we retired at the end of our walk.
THEATRE
Co-ordinator
Eddie Hemsley 01455 554564 (edwardhemsley@btinternet.com )
Revised RSC dates.
Please ignore the February bulletin information. The new dates for tickets to see the Henry plays are as follows:
Henry IV part 1 Tuesday April 8 at 7.15pm. Tickets cost £30 each, except for two at £35 each. Seats are in two groups, one in the stalls, the other in the upper circle.
Henry IV part 2 Wednesday May 21 at 7.15pm. Tickets cost £33 each and are grouped together in the stalls.
As these are provisional bookings we need to hear from those people who would like tickets for one or both plays by March 27. Please let Eddie Hemsley or myself (at: email ea.smalley@virgin.net/telephone 01455 556031) know by this date.Travel is by private car and lifts can be arranged if needed.
Apologies for changing the original dates but April 17 and May 1 coincided with bank holiday arrangements for several people who wanted tickets. Also Thursdays did did not suit everyone.
Anne Smalley
1st WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP
WYCLIFFE U3A Joint Co-ordinators:
Roger Watmore 01455 552431 and
Julian Hargreaves 01455b 557704
Date of Walk - 2nd April 2014
Walk organisers - Peter and Mary Rolleston
Meeting point - Coventry Road Recreation Park at 9.20 a.m. to leave at 9.30 a.m.
Directions to start - Take the Leicester Road (A426) from Lutterworth and then turn at the crossroads (traffic lights) for Broughton Astley. Keep on this road, then at the traffic lights turn left for Stoney Stanton. On entering Stoney Stanton turn left at mini island and the Bulls Head is on the left. They do a varied, reasonably priced menu.
Route and distance - The walk goes through Sapcote, Sharnford and back to Stoney Stanton and is approximately 6 miles. It is a mixture of footpaths and fields and can be shortened if the weather is inclement.
February Walk
Despite the weather forecast for wind and rain, 14 people turned up for the walk prepared for the worst. Amazingly we were walking for nearly three hours and half way round there were just a few spots of rain for about 5 minutes. The wind however was a different matter particularly as it was against us climbing up Hothorpe Hill – if anyone wants one of the best views in Leicestershire they should go – it can be accessed from Sibbertoft without having to climb. We did it the hard way!
Anyway apart from the wind (and the mud) I think most people enjoyed the walk even if it was quite a challenge. 13 people sat down to a very welcome lunch in the Red Lion with a great sense of achievement
4th WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP Co-ordinators:
Sue & Peter Creeden
01455 557888 553341
Wednesday 26 March 2014
Walk Organisers:- Peter & Irene Moore Tel: 01455 552594
Meeting Point and Time:- Lutterworth Recreation Ground car park at 9.20am to leave at 9.30am.
Start Point: Cosby Golf Club, Broughton Road, Cosby, leaving at 10.00am
Directions to the Start:-. Head into Cosby from Broughton Astley cross roads traffic lights. The entrance to Cosby Golf Club Visitors car park is on the right, after Shuttleworth Lane, at the speed limit signs. Please park at the far end. Toilets available for all.
Route and Distance:- :- Starting from Cosby Golf Club visitor car park we will head towards Broughton Astley, Sutton Elms and Croft and return to the Golf Club via Cosby’s “hidden passages”. A very pleasant fairly flat walk across the meadows. Distance approx. 5.75 miles.
Lunch arrangements:- Special U3A menu, a good selection of quality food (inc. vegetarian) all at £6.50 each. A very pleasant Club restaurant awaits. Order before setting off.
February 2014 Walk Report
When we did this walk the last time it rained and we got very wet. This time the weather made up for its previous unkindness by providing the 23 walkers with a gorgeous, mild, sunny morning. The walk started at Ashby Parva, then went through The Slip Inn quarry and onto Dunton Basset. From there we went via Stemborough Mill to Leire and then via Dunton Mill back to Ashby Parva. There were some muddy stretches but considering the recent weather we have had we got off fairly lightly. Afterwards The Hollybush looked after a large crowd of us by providing excellent meals with generous proportions at a very reasonable price.
Sue and Peter Creeden
JOINT WYCLIFFE LUTTERWORTH
And LUTTERWORTH U3A GROUPS
And groups open to WLU3A members
TUESDAY WALKING GROUP Co-ordinator:
Gordon Jones (Lutterworth U3A)
01455 556192
Date of Walk: Tuesday 18th March
Co-ordinator: Gordon Jones. Tel. 01455 556192
Walk Organizers: Fred and Dorothy Milsom. Tel. 01455 552430
Meeting Point: Meet at the Coventry Road recreation ground car park.
Meeting Time: 09.20 to leave at 09.30.
Start Point: The Red Lion Inn at Gilmorton. Please park away from the building if possible. Toilets available before setting out.
Directions: From Lutterworth follow the signs from the town centre to Gilmorton. Turn left by the Crown Inn, the Red Lion is about 300 yards on the left.
Lunch: At the Red Lion, select meals before the walk.
Route and distance: Lanes, field paths and tracks, about 6 miles.
Return Mileage from Lutterworth: 9 miles
JOINT GOLF GROUP (with Lutterworth U3A)
Co-ordinator (Lutterworth U3A)
Peter Moore
01455 552594
e-mail:- peter79moore@gmail.com
Next Golf Day will be at Kilworth Springs Golf Club on Thursday 17th April 2014.competing for the Hartopp Trophy and Prizes.Meet at 12.00 Hrs for 1.00 pm Tee Time in the Golf Club Bar. Coffee and Bacon Roll included on arrival. To confirm your attendance or for full itinerary, including Meal choices, please contact Peter Moore
Cost each approx. £33.00 to include Coffee and Bacon Roll, Green Fee, Prizes and Dinner. (Dependent upon numbers) Don't forget to invite your Partner/wife for 2 course Dinner at 6.30pm in the Golf Club Restaurant . Cost £10.00.per person. Coffee at extra cost.
Jackets and Ties *not required*
Seasons Forthcoming Golf Days
Whetstone Golf Club. Early June 2014
Ullesthorpe Golf Club. Mid August 2014
Lutterworth Golf Club. Late September 2014
Away Day. Friday 17th October 2014. Wollaton Park Golf Club, Nottingham.
Another top class venue not to be missed. You must attend this event or you will really miss out on a treat.
Full details of all above events in future Newsletters.
Alison worked for the Haymarket Theatre prior to joining Mrs Mackay, at the very beginning. It all started when Mrs Cynthia Mackay was in Bridlington in 1992 and she had a dream that she would like to build her own theatre. In 1999, Celia and husband Richard bought Kilworth House with some 38 acres of land and restored the House to open the Hotel in 2000 and start getting funds to finance the theatre project. They applied for and were ultimately awarded planning permission to build a permanent theatre with a Proscenium Arch, but in order to raise money and get an idea of what audiences they might attract, they decided to build a temporary open air theatre whilst waiting for permission.
And so the current theatre as we know it was built. They were careful to protect the wildlife (badgers, owls, voles etc.) as they cleared the site. It was awarded the New Building of 2006 and 2 other awards by the Campaign to protect Rural England. On 5th June 2007 Adam Watkiss’ production of “Pirates of Penzance” opened the Theatre. There were 26 performances that first year, and subsequently One Night shows with artistes including The Hollies, Ken Dodd and the Kilworth production of the Opera Show were added to the repertoire. The latter was so popular that it was taken on an international tour. At La Scala, Milan, they were given a standing ovation. S great accolade.
Now all the productions get sold out, and the Telegraph have called it “The Best Kept secret of the Theatre world.” It costs around £350,000 to put on each musical production, and Kilworth aims only to ‘break even’, so keeping ticket prices down. The shows are seen as good publicity for The Hotel and Restaurant, which indeed they are.
Each year auditions and rehearsals for the forthcoming shows are held in London, though crucially the cast are sent their footwear well in advance so that they can ‘wear them in’. Ten days prior to the opening night, the cast come to Kilworth and are welcomed in hospitality suite, ‘The Staging Post’. They are well looked after, and local people put up the singers and actors in the B&B tradition of Theatre Landladies. This has proved very successful, and many friendships have resulted.
All the sets and props are imaginatively designed and most made at Kilworth. For example, the ears of corn for Oklahoma were made by wrapping bubble wrap around kitchen roll middles, and then painting them yellow. Also many of the clothes and props are purchased from Charity shops. The Theatre has a capacity of 550 seats now, and has held some 98 performances. The total audience figure is in excess of 50,000., and it has become known worldwide , with audiences coming from London, France, USA and other places as well as many local people.
Aren’t we lucky to have Kilworth House Theatre on our doorstep!
A MESSGAGE FROM EDDIE
Looking ahead!
I will be ending my period as Chairman at the Annual General Meeting to be held in March having covered the maximum period of three years stipulated in the U3A’s Constitution. It has been a very enjoyable experience but it is now time for me to move over and allow someone else the privilege of continuing the process of taking the organisation forward.
I am making a plea, therefore, for a member or members to consider taking up the baton and putting their name(s) forward for election. The past three holders of the office have been men so is it, maybe, time for a female Chair? Who knows? The decision is yours.
If you might be interested but would like more information please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be more than happy to assist. Eddie Hemsley,
Legs 4 Africa
Did you know that thousands of prosthetic limbs are thrown
away every year in the UK?
Neither did Tom until he went to Gambia! There he met a man who had lost his leg. Back in the UK, he arranged to have a leg made and delivered it to the delighted man. Realising there were many amputees over there, Tom wanted to do more. He found that used prosthetic legs are just thrown away here! Since then he has delivered 18 more limbs to Gambia. His latest plan is to take 200 legs by van. There will be some spare room. If you have any unwanted disability aids, mobile phones or items which might benefit local children (dictionaries, stationery, pencils, activity books etc) they would be very welcome. Tom also desperately needs money to help fund the operation, so if you would like to donate to this worthy cause, please go to www.crowdfunder.co.uk/legittoafrica
Also Tom would welcome the experience and knowledge of others - this scheme is in its infancy. Maybe you have links with organisations or businesses which could offer assistance, or perhaps you have helped with a similar project and may be able to suggest ideas and strategies. He can be contacted at legs4africa.org
Tom Williams comes from Arnesby, and is a rather extraordinary young man! If you have any items for delivery please contact Sue Hill on 01455553369
GROUP REPORTS
(in alphabetical order)
BOOK CHAT
Co-ordinator
Mick Curtis
01455 554504
A Street Cat Named Bob: How One Man and His Cat Found Hope on the Streets by James Bowen (a recovering drug addict) but most likely by a ghost writer,but whoever did write this"True Story"obviously has his eye on television and/or a film. He has managed to stretch very little into a full-length tome. It may be of interest to anyone who knows nothing of sheltered housing, drug addition and the pains of withdrawal from drug dependancy, street life and petty officials or the logistics behind The Big Issue, but to have managed to make it popular enough to sell so well and be in every public library is no mean achievement given such a thin read. Again our group was split, although the majority did enjoy the antics of Bob.
*************ANOTHER NEW EATING GROUP!!***************
BUFFET SUPPER CLUB
Co-ordinator
Ann Hetherington
01455 203498
ann@netcomz.com
The first get-together of this group will be on the 12th March at Ann’s house. We have eleven folks interested & we hope for a most enjoyable evening. The 9th April will then be organized, so ring Ann for details if you would like to join us. Each person contributes a dish to the meal & brings their own drink.
The frequency of this Supper is each 2nd Weds. per month. Time is 7pm- 10.30pm
CYCLING GROUP
Co-ordinator
Nigel Bones
01455 209756
Now that spring is here, it’s time to polish up those bicycle clips and start thinking about cycling. There will be a meeting of the cycle group on the 27th March at 12:30 pm in The Hollybush Inn, Ashby Parva, for a spot of lunch and to discuss the programme for the year. If anyone is interested in joining us, please contact Nigel Bones.
ETHNIC EATING
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
Wednesday 26th February a small group of eight went to Rossini, Ristorante Italiano at 38 Coventry Road, Hinckley (almost opposite the Hinckley Leisure Centre) where we ordered the Party Menu. We all had Starters and without exception thought they were well-presented and a good size. As for the Main Courses, they were equally well-presented and served with ample vegetables etc. The sauces were particularly good. Only five of the party could manage the Desserts, where the Tiramisu were layered vertically in a glass – unusual - and one man went for the Italian Bread and Butter Pudding (a new one to us). All in all – a very successful evening.
Wednesday 26th March – We are going for a “Moroccan” Menu at “La Margherita” - central Rugby – round the corner from the Clock Tower and just past the Parish Church, with a municipal Car Park nearby.
Wednesday 23rd April – St George’s Day and Shakespeare’s “Official” Birthday (his 450th!) – I am trying to arrange something “Special” and local!
Also there is the possibility of arranging a Live Jazz Evening at Summersault Vegetarian Restaurant in Rugby - they change their Menu weekly but have a choice of 3 Starters, 3 Mains and 10 Puddings! Enter www.summersault.ltd.uk/Jazz_menu.html - to view a Specimen Menu. Note – only on Friday evenings
Look out for the sheets at today’s meeting or ring/e-mail me as soon as possible.
FRENCH CONVERSATION
Co-ordinator
Sue Hicks
01858 880273
27 February 2014
We had an identification challenge in French involving some herbs and spices. Then there was a translation and discussion on La Chandeleur, a festival celebrated with pancakes in France, which was on 2 February. Shrove Tuesday will be on 4 March. Pearl gave us some tips for making pancakes. After a discussion about St Valentine’s day, we continued with more general conversation. The next meeting will be on 27 March.
GARDEN GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sue Creeden
01455 557888
23 members took a pleasant stroll around Coton Manor for our February meeting. The snowdrops and hellebores were out in abundance and the gardens were looking particularly delightful as we walked in the winter sunshine. Afterwards we all enjoyed a warm and welcome cuppa in the café.
Our March meeting will be a talk by Mick Cross on growing and showing Dahlias. We will meet at his home, Woodcroft, Ashby Lane, Bitteswell on Tuesday evening, 25th March (so that he can show us his greenhouses and demonstrate how to take cuttings, etc.) The session will start at 7.00 p.m. and be approximately an hour, followed by light refreshments. If you would like to come, please telephone me on the above number or email sueandpeter.creeden@talktalk.net
GARDEN LUNCHES
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
email grahjill@hotmail.com
Tuesday 18 February 2014 – Palmers of Ullesthorpe. As usual with Palmers, a warm welcome and a varied choice. I am afraid I got the “Coffee & Cake” details wrong and it was only available after 2 pm and you had to have a print-out of the Coupon. If there is a suitable Special Offer on the Palmers Card, I will try to put details on your Reminder Slips.
Tuesday 9th April 2014 – Woodlands Nursery & Garden Centre, Ashby Road, Stapleton LE9 8JE
Tel 01455 291494
They have a Lakeland outlet (Tel 01455 293527), so if there is an item you want, you can probably ring them in advance to request the product and save on postage
GERMAN CONVERSATION
Co-ordinator
Sue Hicks
01858 880273
January and February 2014
Both meetings were cancelled owing to lack of numbers. I have reluctantly decided to discontinue this group after 2½ years as it is no longer viable.
Many thanks to those who have supported me in the past. Sue
LIVELY DISCUSSION
Co-ordinator
Dot Barnard
01455 208190
dot.barnard@uwclub.net
February Report 10th February 2014
Does Valentine’s Day mean anything?
It seems that there were 3 St Valentines, but the one who is thought to have started the romantic link is St Valentine who was martyred in 270AD. Emperor Claudius wanted only single young men for soldiers as he thought that if there were no wives or children to think about they would be free to fight. However a priest called Valentine carried out secret weddings and lost his life on February 14th because of this. The oldest known verses come from the middle ages. In 1375, Chaucer in his ‘Parliament of Fools’ mentioned February 14th as the day when humans and birds find their mates. The oldest known valentine was sent by the Duc d’Orleans in 1415. The British Library has one from the battle of Agincourt and Henry V is known to have sent a valentine note to Catherine de Valois. There was also a Pope Valentine 827AD and a female. St Valentina 308AD. The sending of cards and verses became very popular in Victorian times and these days most valentine cards are sent by males in the 16 – 30 age group. In fact men of all ages buy more valentine cards than cards at any other time of year.
Everyone in the group deplored the over commercialisation of Valentine’s Day. Some felt that choosing to do something unusual for your partner was more romantic. Although some still send lovely or amusing cards and keep them too. The red rose is the symbol of love, yet they aren’t in season here or many other countries! 100 million roses are flown round the world for this market. The carbon footprint and poor working conditions for workers in South America, where most come from, are very worrying. We were also concerned about young people, especially girls for whom this is a very stressful time if they don’t receive at least one card. This can be compounded by the on-line bullying which is prevalent now Over-spending on subsequent weddings which leave huge debts was also a concern. ‘Births, Deaths and Marriages’ shown on ITV, featured a couple in casual clothes, asking passers-by to be their witnesses at the shortest legal ceremony possible. On balance Valentine’s day still means something to many of us.
Apparently experiencing mutual fear helps romance along far more than spending a fortune on Valentine’s cards and presents. And finally Casanova said ‘Love is three quarters curiosity.’
April Topic Can a free press be entirely faultless?
POETRY GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sylvia Hitchen
0116 247 8353
Sylvia.hitchen@btinternet.com
The poetry group met at the new time of 2.00pm. The themes for the afternoon were "Winter" and "Valentine's Day" however participants were also invited to throw anything else they fancied into the mix. We read and discussed poems by Walter de la Mare, Edward Thomas, John Betjeman, Robert Frost and Roger McGough (of Lily the Pink fame) among others. We were treated to wonderful images of Winter seascapes and landscapes, snow and birds and deer, and all spiced up with some off theme poems on warmer weather and cats and dogs.
The next get together will be on March 27th at 2.00pm with a (non compulsory) theme of landscapes.
PUB LUNCHES
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
email grahjill@hotmail.com
Wednesday 5 February – Lunch at the Elms went off fairly well. Most people ordered the Carvery and went up for it as soon as it was available but the member who had ordered something different got her lunch late through a misapprehension with the staff. Something I will have to watch out for.
Wednesday 5 March – Back to The Brewery – At one point 30 members signed up for this Lunch, but illness and clashing appointments whittled the number down to to 24. Report next month
Wednesday 2 April - The Shires, Peatling Parva – not far to drive and plenty of space and choice.
SUNDAY SPECIALS
Our first venture was to The Royal Oak at Bitteswell on Sunday 23rd March. Report next month.
Watch this space for what we might do next! One suggestion is visiting Open Gardens in The Yellow Book – especially those that provides meals! Any other ideas welcome – National Trust or Historic Houses.
SNAIL’S PACE WALKING GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sheila Eggleton
01455 554387
sheilaeggleton@yahoo.co.uk
March 21st 2014
Our next Walk will be led by Dot and will start from Dunton Bassett Country Primary School, The Mount, Dunton Bassett LE17 5JL. We will meet at Dot’s opposite the school (Number 3 Mount View, The Mount). The walk will commence at 11.30a.m. Some of you may have already done part of this walk with Dot but it had to be curtailed because of the heat and a number of people missed it for a variety of reasons, which is why we have decided to put this walk on the programme a second time. The walk does involve a couple of stiles and you are advised to have waterproof footwear. Dot has kindly offered refreshments at her home at the end of the walk for a donation to the Air Ambulance.
February 21st
We followed a heritage trail around Kibworth Harcourt which turned out to be very interesting. It introduced us to the wide range of architectural jewels in this part of Kibworth, many of the buildings are now listed because of their historical status. Walking along what is now Main Street we saw cottages which had once been the local bakery, butchers and blacksmiths. It was fascinating to observe one splendid home which would once, judging by the blocked up windows, have been four dwellings. Kibworth had in its time an abundance of local inns and it was to one of those which remains that we retired at the end of our walk.
THEATRE
Co-ordinator
Eddie Hemsley 01455 554564 (edwardhemsley@btinternet.com )
Revised RSC dates.
Please ignore the February bulletin information. The new dates for tickets to see the Henry plays are as follows:
Henry IV part 1 Tuesday April 8 at 7.15pm. Tickets cost £30 each, except for two at £35 each. Seats are in two groups, one in the stalls, the other in the upper circle.
Henry IV part 2 Wednesday May 21 at 7.15pm. Tickets cost £33 each and are grouped together in the stalls.
As these are provisional bookings we need to hear from those people who would like tickets for one or both plays by March 27. Please let Eddie Hemsley or myself (at: email ea.smalley@virgin.net/telephone 01455 556031) know by this date.Travel is by private car and lifts can be arranged if needed.
Apologies for changing the original dates but April 17 and May 1 coincided with bank holiday arrangements for several people who wanted tickets. Also Thursdays did did not suit everyone.
Anne Smalley
1st WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP
WYCLIFFE U3A Joint Co-ordinators:
Roger Watmore 01455 552431 and
Julian Hargreaves 01455b 557704
Date of Walk - 2nd April 2014
Walk organisers - Peter and Mary Rolleston
Meeting point - Coventry Road Recreation Park at 9.20 a.m. to leave at 9.30 a.m.
Directions to start - Take the Leicester Road (A426) from Lutterworth and then turn at the crossroads (traffic lights) for Broughton Astley. Keep on this road, then at the traffic lights turn left for Stoney Stanton. On entering Stoney Stanton turn left at mini island and the Bulls Head is on the left. They do a varied, reasonably priced menu.
Route and distance - The walk goes through Sapcote, Sharnford and back to Stoney Stanton and is approximately 6 miles. It is a mixture of footpaths and fields and can be shortened if the weather is inclement.
February Walk
Despite the weather forecast for wind and rain, 14 people turned up for the walk prepared for the worst. Amazingly we were walking for nearly three hours and half way round there were just a few spots of rain for about 5 minutes. The wind however was a different matter particularly as it was against us climbing up Hothorpe Hill – if anyone wants one of the best views in Leicestershire they should go – it can be accessed from Sibbertoft without having to climb. We did it the hard way!
Anyway apart from the wind (and the mud) I think most people enjoyed the walk even if it was quite a challenge. 13 people sat down to a very welcome lunch in the Red Lion with a great sense of achievement
4th WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP Co-ordinators:
Sue & Peter Creeden
01455 557888 553341
Wednesday 26 March 2014
Walk Organisers:- Peter & Irene Moore Tel: 01455 552594
Meeting Point and Time:- Lutterworth Recreation Ground car park at 9.20am to leave at 9.30am.
Start Point: Cosby Golf Club, Broughton Road, Cosby, leaving at 10.00am
Directions to the Start:-. Head into Cosby from Broughton Astley cross roads traffic lights. The entrance to Cosby Golf Club Visitors car park is on the right, after Shuttleworth Lane, at the speed limit signs. Please park at the far end. Toilets available for all.
Route and Distance:- :- Starting from Cosby Golf Club visitor car park we will head towards Broughton Astley, Sutton Elms and Croft and return to the Golf Club via Cosby’s “hidden passages”. A very pleasant fairly flat walk across the meadows. Distance approx. 5.75 miles.
Lunch arrangements:- Special U3A menu, a good selection of quality food (inc. vegetarian) all at £6.50 each. A very pleasant Club restaurant awaits. Order before setting off.
February 2014 Walk Report
When we did this walk the last time it rained and we got very wet. This time the weather made up for its previous unkindness by providing the 23 walkers with a gorgeous, mild, sunny morning. The walk started at Ashby Parva, then went through The Slip Inn quarry and onto Dunton Basset. From there we went via Stemborough Mill to Leire and then via Dunton Mill back to Ashby Parva. There were some muddy stretches but considering the recent weather we have had we got off fairly lightly. Afterwards The Hollybush looked after a large crowd of us by providing excellent meals with generous proportions at a very reasonable price.
Sue and Peter Creeden
JOINT WYCLIFFE LUTTERWORTH
And LUTTERWORTH U3A GROUPS
And groups open to WLU3A members
TUESDAY WALKING GROUP Co-ordinator:
Gordon Jones (Lutterworth U3A)
01455 556192
Date of Walk: Tuesday 18th March
Co-ordinator: Gordon Jones. Tel. 01455 556192
Walk Organizers: Fred and Dorothy Milsom. Tel. 01455 552430
Meeting Point: Meet at the Coventry Road recreation ground car park.
Meeting Time: 09.20 to leave at 09.30.
Start Point: The Red Lion Inn at Gilmorton. Please park away from the building if possible. Toilets available before setting out.
Directions: From Lutterworth follow the signs from the town centre to Gilmorton. Turn left by the Crown Inn, the Red Lion is about 300 yards on the left.
Lunch: At the Red Lion, select meals before the walk.
Route and distance: Lanes, field paths and tracks, about 6 miles.
Return Mileage from Lutterworth: 9 miles
JOINT GOLF GROUP (with Lutterworth U3A)
Co-ordinator (Lutterworth U3A)
Peter Moore
01455 552594
e-mail:- peter79moore@gmail.com
Next Golf Day will be at Kilworth Springs Golf Club on Thursday 17th April 2014.competing for the Hartopp Trophy and Prizes.Meet at 12.00 Hrs for 1.00 pm Tee Time in the Golf Club Bar. Coffee and Bacon Roll included on arrival. To confirm your attendance or for full itinerary, including Meal choices, please contact Peter Moore
Cost each approx. £33.00 to include Coffee and Bacon Roll, Green Fee, Prizes and Dinner. (Dependent upon numbers) Don't forget to invite your Partner/wife for 2 course Dinner at 6.30pm in the Golf Club Restaurant . Cost £10.00.per person. Coffee at extra cost.
Jackets and Ties *not required*
Seasons Forthcoming Golf Days
Whetstone Golf Club. Early June 2014
Ullesthorpe Golf Club. Mid August 2014
Lutterworth Golf Club. Late September 2014
Away Day. Friday 17th October 2014. Wollaton Park Golf Club, Nottingham.
Another top class venue not to be missed. You must attend this event or you will really miss out on a treat.
Full details of all above events in future Newsletters.
