Monthly Bulletin for May 2014
Report on the April Meeting
Our speaker this month was Roy Wood, a local Financial Advisor with 35 years of experience in wealth management. He gave a brief outline of how to get value for money in retirement, if certain rules are followed and money is invested in a variety of options, namely:
1 Stocks and Shares
2 Property
3 Gold and Silver
4 Government Bonds
5 Cash investments.
He stated that returns on investment bonds, which are tax free ,should be viewed over no less than a six year period, which should balance out losses .These are also exempt when Care Home fees are assessed.. He made further suggestions to make sure Wills were reviewed, Property was put in trust, and steps were taken to ensure two younger persons had Powers of Attorney, one to oversee health and welfare and the other to deal with financial affairs. He stated that if joint bank accounts were held, financial matters after the death of one partner ran smoothly .Finally he urged everyone to act without delay to achieve wishes on their bucket list. Free advice can be sought without obligation, for a more comprehensive overview of money management in retirement.
**********VERY IMPORTANT ADVANCE NOTICE**********
Our Summer Garden Party will be on Sunday 13th July at Misterton Hall. Details to follow, but put the date in your diary.
The August Meeting will be on the 21st August. The church will not be available to us on the 14th August, as The Embroiderers Guild has a display all week.
This is ONLY for August
GROUP REPORTS
(in alphabetical order)
ART GROUP
Co-ordinator
Chris Brady
01455 209108
After a short Easter break we will be meeting on a weekly basis every Tuesday from 2pm to 4pm, apart from May 13th. Our current theme will look at World War one posters, with which we could create a group collage. Hopefully as the weather warms up, we will be painting and sketching outdoors in and around local villages to supplement photographic records and improve observational jottings. Current members of the group have benefited from sharing positive views on completed work and enjoy time to offload good and adverse experiences during the tea break.
BOOK CHAT
Co-ordinator
Mick Curtis
01455 554504
"Cast in order of disappearance" by Simon Brett was our choice for this month and we experienced difficulties in obtaining enough copies for all to read. This highlights the problems we have had since being unable to rely on the library service to help us with our book choices. A difficulty we must revisit for us to enjoy our continuation as a book group. However we did manage to all read a Simon Brett novel with varying degrees of enjoyment. It would seem his earlier books had more structure and enjoyability than his later works which are based on the detection skills of an ill matched pair of lady sleuths in the Feathering series of mysteries.
Our next choice is "The House at Riverton" by Kate Morton hopefully a more cerebral choice.
BUFFET SUPPER CLUB
Co-ordinator
Ann Hetherington
01455 203498
ann@netcomz.com
At the second get-together of the Supper Club, eleven of us met up at Carol & Ron’s house & had a lovely evening of excellent food & friendship.
The 14th May supper will be at Vikky & Nigel Burt’s house – 01455 554498
The 11th June will be at Mary & Dave Hodgson’s – 01455 552303
Please let Vikky & Mary know if you are going & what dish you will be bringing. Also bring your own drink, plates & cutlery.
CRAFTS GROUP
Co– ordinator
Doreen Barrett
01455 550228
I have decided to take a break from my Thursday gatherings. It will begin now, up until September 2014.
So the next meeting will be on 25th September
We have been running since the start of the Wycliffe Lutterworth U3A and I think this break will give us time to enjoy our summer holidays
Thank you for your support and I look forward to seeing you again in September.
CYCLING GROUP
Co-ordinator
Nigel Bones
01455 209756
The first cycle ride of the year took place in April on a chilly but bright and sunny day when 8 intrepid cyclists braved the chill and cycled through Misterton to Walcote, down the gated road to Stanford and back to Lutterworth via Swinford. For those of us from the outlying villages of Leire, Ashby Parva and Gilmorton, the total distance was about 18 miles, but those from Lutterworth had it easy with only 12 miles or so covered. We had an excellent day though, finishing off with lunch and a drink at The Elms. Following a meeting in March for all those interested in cycling, the decision was made to have our rides on the second Tuesday of the month, and to limit the distances to around 20 miles. If anyone is interested in joining us, please contact Nigel on 01455 209756.
ETHNIC EATING
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
Wednesday 26th March – Twelve of us gathered for a “Moroccan” Meal at “La Margherita” in Rugby. They did us proud, explaining why the dishes served were so typically Moroccan – what the ingredients were - and the cultural background. We left with our stomachs well and truly satisfied – certainly a restaurant to go back to.
Wednesday 23rd April – St George’s Day and Shakespeare’s “Official” Birthday (his 450th!) – Twenty of us sat down for Dinner that night at Lutterworth Golf Club – 12 from Wycliffe U3A and 8 from Lutterworth U3A and it was very pleasant occasion. We were served a splendid three-course dinner with plenty of choice and Tea/Coffee and Mints to follow – all for the princely sum of £20 –Thank You Very Much Rebecca (of Rebecca Louise Catering). The different Courses were separated by various selections from Shakespeare, “sourced” by Jill and delivered with aplomb by Bob Howes (as Town Mayor complete with “bling”) and Dot Barnard. There was also a Shakespeare Quiz which was won by 5 ladies from Lutterworth U3A, Dot having thoughtfully provided a “prize” – a box of chocolate mints.
It was quite a “cliff-hanger” with people on the original list dropping out for various reasons and others ringing up at the last minute, including one of our ladies who was convinced she was on the list and simply rang up to check the time! All I can say is that if anyone thinks it is a good idea to celebrate either American Independence Day on the 4th July or the Bastille Day on the 14th July with a suitably “Ethnic” Dinner, they should go ahead and I will be happy to sign on on behalf of my stomach!!
Wednesday 28th May – La Casa Loco in Rugby (up the stairs in the Mini-Arcade at the back of Marks & Spencers with a Car Park nearby) Still time to sign on. They sound very welcoming and relaxed and a complete stranger told me that their Margheritas are to die for! If you do sign on the sheet, please take a Reminder Slip and make a note in your diary!
Wednesday 15th June – Dot Barnard and I are investigating a Greek Restaurant in the centre of Leicester. More information next month.
And also, something “Distinctly Different”?!
ALL THAT JAZZ – Friday 2 May - a Live Jazz Evening at Summersault Vegetarian Restaurant in Rugby. Report next month
FAMILY HISTORY
Co-ordinator
Jackie Yeo
01455 552376
There was no meeting of the family history group due to Easter. The next meeting is on Tuesday 27th May at 10am.
Lutterworth U3A Family History group's next meeting will be on Monday June 23rd at 2pm at the One Stop Shop. The speaker will be Brian Johnson, and the talk is entitled "Who do you think lived in a house like this?".
There is a £3 charge to offset the hire of the room, but excellent cakes and tea are usually provided!!
FRENCH CONVERSATION
Co-ordinator
Sue Hicks
01858 880273
24 April 2014
Easter in France was the first topic we looked at, followed by a discussion on plays, films, TV etc.
At our next meeting, on 22 May, we shall be watching a film, Romuald et Juliette, at Tony and Pearl’s house. This is described as a charming romantic comedy set against the background of boardroom intrigue, cross-cutting between the lifestyles of rich and poor and between whites and blacks. The film is directed by Coline Serreau and stars Daniel Auteuil and Firmine Richard.
GARDEN GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sue Creeden
01455 557888
For our April meeting a small group of us went on an intrepid adventure through Badby Woods to view the bluebells. It was perhaps slightly early in the season but we were certainly not disappointed; the woods were a spectacular carpet of blue. Afterwards, the local hostelry provided welcome refreshments - the cakes were delicious!
Our next meeting will be a tour of Anna Smith’s garden at Green Wicket Farm, Bitteswell on Tuesday 27th May. Anna has developed her garden from scratch over the last six years and now opens it to the public under the NGS scheme. We will meet there, which is up the drive at the side of the cricket ground in Ullesthorpe Road (LE17 4LR), at 2.30 p.m. The charge of £4.50 includes refreshments and a donation to NGS. Should the weather be inclement, the tour will be shortened and refreshments will be served indoors.
If you would like to come, please could you telephone me on the above number or email sueandpeter.creeden@talktalk.net.
Advance notice: On 24th June I am organising a trip to Barnsdale Gardens, near Oakham. I have provisionally booked the Broughton Astley mini-bus which seats 14 people. Group entry is £5.50 per person and the mini-bus will be approximately £6.50 per person. If more than 14 people would like to go, we could either lift-share in cars or I can book a larger coach through a coach company. (The cost may then vary). Again, please let me know if you would like to come.
Just for information, on Sunday 29th June Ullesthorpe are holding an ‘Open Gardens’ day. There will be many gardens to view so do pop along. Also, Sulby Gardens are open under the NGS scheme on several occasions during the year, the next date being Thursday, 19th June. They are very extensive and again, well worth a visit.
Finally, Lutterworth U3A are doing a trip to Kiftsgate, Chipping Campden on Tuesday 3rd June. The coach leaves Lutterworth at 10.30 a.m. and there will be a lunch stop in Chipping Campden. The charge of £19 includes coach and entry to the gardens. If you could like to go please let me know.
GARDEN LUNCHES
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
email grahjill@hotmail.com
Tuesday 15th April 2014 – Woodlands Nursery & Garden Centre Only 6 people went to Woodlands but said they had a terrific time with all the retail outlets available! They felt the food was OK but not over-exciting. Perhaps another time we should go elsewhere for Lunch and call for the shopping and tea and cake later in the afternoon!
Tuesday 20th May – Farndon Fields Farm Shop - Farndon Rd, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 9NP 01858 464838www.farndonfieldsfarmshop.co.uk/
A new Venue for us but one that is highly recommended by those who know it. They offer produce grown on the Farndon Fields Farm as well as locally-produced foods.
I called there for Lunch one Saturday (after filling my car boot with plants from the Market Harborough Plant Sale!) The Cafe seats about 60 and has a reasonably varied choice of Soup, Filled Rolls (well & truly Stuffed Rolls), Salads, Specials and CAKES! The Shop has a good stock of fresh vegetables as well as a fresh Meat counter. Still time to sign up and take a Reminder Slip!
Tuesday 10th June – Foxton Locks Inn - Bottom Lock, Gumley Road, Foxton, Market Harborough LE16 7RA Tel 0116 279 2525 www.restaurantfoxtonlocks.co.uk Varied Menu – Starters £4.95, Snacks & Lite Bites £6.95, Basket Meals £7.96 Mains £9.85 with a small selection of Mains available in smaller portions “for small appetites”! (Could always have 2 Starters!) See Sample Menu and Signing Up Sheet
LIVELY DISCUSSION
Co-ordinator
Dot Barnard
01455 208190
dot.barnard@uwclub.net
14th April 2014
“Can a free press be entirely faultless?”
No!!! All agreed that the press MUST remain free, but of course it’s not faultless. Some people like to know about the famous or the infamous, but that did not include us. Everyone condemned unethical practices such as phone hacking, vendettas and harassment of ordinary people - sometimes to the point of suicide - and we felt that proprietors caused problems by forcing editors sometimes to act unethically to increase circulation because of greed. Often papers were hypocritical when they changed their stance to increase sales.
The public is entitled to know what MPs, councillors etc. are doing since they work for us. In some cases such as Jimmy Savile and Cyril Smith we may prefer not to know, nevertheless the freedom of the press is vital here. Edward VIII and Mrs Simpson were reported outside the UK and yet we were most affected. The press suppressing information is equally reprehensible. Constant repetition and minute detail is irritating; we need the facts and can make our own decisions about each story. Why did we need to know the opinion of a taxi driver in the village where Peaches Geldof died?
The recent acquittals of high profile people on sexual charges brings into question the press role and reporting. It should not be free from the law or a moral code. The Telegraph supplement on MPs expenses was felt to be very good since it listed each MP and what (s)he had claimed with minimal comment. But will we ever forget the duck house? Opinion was divided on royal supplements showing Prince George or other family members.
Despite all this, without the press we wouldn’t know about thalidomide, corrupt Pakistani cricketers, Jonathan Aitken, Edward Snowden and the Arab connection to the Royal family. Now that we are aware of the ‘dirt’ it is difficult to respect politicians and public figures. We want the country run ethically but now it is hard to believe that MPs have the best interests of the UK at heart.
A couple of members don’t buy papers and get their information from radio and TV. Another felt that local papers are often inaccurate. Several people praised the Times for reporting and its commentaries.
There seems to be a change in the style of reporting across all media with emotive and vitriolic language being used, such as ‘X admitted …’ rather than ‘X said…’ or ‘Y bleated …’ rather than ‘Y explained…’ Or as mentioned in paragraph 1, ‘because of greed’ could have been changed to ‘fuelled by greed’, but it was not amended. We were unsure when this change in style took place, but it could be with the Blair government and the introduction of spin doctors.
We concluded that a free press is vital, even though it’s flawed. Our greatest wish is that the press should be regulated independently of government and itself.
June Topic : The housing crisis
*******GROUP REINSTATED*******
PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP
Co-ordinator
Mick Curtis
01455 554504
Good news! I am able to reinstate this group and our first meeting back will be on Fri. 23rd May. The subject will be Wheels
But beware group there are changes afoot. Mick
POETRY GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sylvia Hitchen
0116 247 8353
Sylvia.hitchen@btinternet.com.
Would anyone else out there like to try our little group ? The only requirement is to enjoy poetry, we simply read and discuss poems in a non expert way in a very friendly little group.
For the April meeting we had a suggested theme of song and dance and Springtime, and in line with this we read poems by Wordsworth, Belloc, Longfellow and Clare, among others. The poetry of Pam Ayres and Wendy Cope provided humour and Dot read a Sylvia Plath poem, "Night Dancing", which was difficult to discuss because none of us actually understood it.
I introduced Thomas Hardy as a poet. Here is a little bit about him:
Born 1840 in Dorset Hardy considered himself primarily a poet although he wrote arguably some of the best novels in the English language. One of his biographers maintains he wrote novels out of economic necessity and at any rate he gave up after receiving poor reviews for “Tess” and “Jude the Obscure” which was publicly burnt by a bishop protesting at its sexual nature.
Hardy has a reputation for being very pessimistic . He himself didn’t think he was, he said he was just telling things as they were but I think his novels were becoming increasingly dark.
The son of a stonemason, he started life as an architect. He married Emma Gifford in 1874 and she encouraged his literary work although they had a very difficult relationship. Nevertheless he was greatly affected by her death in 1912 and this does colour some of his work.
His poetry is very lyrical and has themes of love, religion, nature, nostalgia and a hatred of violence and cruelty. He wrote nearly a thousand poems drawing heavily on the poor and rural county where he lived all his life. He was visited by other poets such as Yeats and Sassoon and was an influence on Auden, Larkin and Robert Frost. Virginia Woolf called him a “profound and poetic genius”.
He died in 1928 and is buried in Poets Corner in Westminster Abbey.
We also discussed a couple of his poems, "The Fallow Deer at the Lonely House" and "The Darkling Thrush".
The suggested (not compulsory) theme for May is "Food and Drink". Also I will read Browning's "The Last Duchess" to see if anyone else finds it as creepy as I do.
PUB LUNCHES
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
email grahjill@hotmail.com
Wednesday 2 April - The Shires, Peatling Parva – not far to drive - plenty of space and choice. Well – this is one of our regular “Watering Holes” and we were quite a large party but everything went off smoothly. They have such a long “Specials” Board that it can take some people longer to choose what they want than it does for them to eat it! We operate on the basis that people should order and pay as they arrive and this saves the Kitchen having to try to keep 20+ Meals hot (and generally failing!) Always a popular Venue, no doubt we will be back there before too long.
Wednesday 7th May - Kilworth Springs Golf Club They wanted individual Menu choices ahead of the day and they stipulated that any “No Shows” after I had rung in the choices would have to pay for the Meal. Seems a bit rough as there are 20 people on my list and of those 10 opted for Whitby Scampi, 4 for Deep Fried Fish, 3 for Lasagne, 2 for Smoked Haddock Salad and one for Poached Salmon! – Report next month.
Wednesday 4 June – The Grey Goose, Gilmorton – they have an “Early Bird Menu” which changes daily (£12.95-2 Courses/£14.95-3 courses). I was there recently for a small family dinner and we had an excellent meal. Certainly worth signing up for. DO IT TODAY – and remember to take a Reminder Slip and note it in your diary.
QUIZ GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sylvie Curtis
01455 554504
Our group met for our April meeting to answer some intriguing questions set by Joan.
We will not be meeting in June but will resume again in July
******NEW CO-ORDINATOR & LOCATION*****
SCRABBLE
Co-ordinator
Pat Hunter
01455 699935
11 Greenacres Drive
Message from June Hartopp
I wish to say “Thanks” to the Scrabble Group members who gave me such lovely presents at our last meeting. I have handed it all over to Pat Hunter who has my best wishes, and I’m sure she will do it well, especially as at that meeting she scored 82 points in one go!
SNAIL’S PACE WALKING GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sheila Eggleton
01455 554387
sheilaeggleton@yahoo.co.uk
May 16th
Our walk(s) in May will be within Bradgate Park, Leicestershire. We will start our walk from the car park at Newtown Linford at 11.30 a.m. The car park will cost £2.50. One way to reach Newtown Linford is to go along the M1, from Lutterworth or Leicester, turning off the motorway at J21A, onto the A46. Take the second turn off this road, signposted Ansley. Turn left at the roundabout, as you come off the motorway, heading towards the village. On reaching the village, at the mini roundabout turn left and follow this road until you reach Newtown Linford. At the park there will be a choice of two walks. The first will be on hard standing and totally flat, following the main path from the car park at one end to the car park at the other end. On the way back those who wish can stop at the tea rooms for refreshments before returning to the car park at Newtown Linford. It will take approx. 50minutes to do the first part of this walk. For those who want something a little more challenging we will accompany the main group along the pathway, detouring uphill around the lower slopes of the hill until making our way back down to the pathway and re-joining the group at the tea rooms, for those who wish. Stronger footwear may be required if you complete the second of the two walks.
21st March
On a lovely, warm spring morning twelve of us joined an organised walking trail of Market Bosworth. The walk started with lovely refreshments at the Forge in Park Street during which we were able to view old photographic images of Market Bosworth. It would take far too much space to give credit to the wonderful anecdotes and historical facts we were given by our guides. Many visitors may not get beyond the Market Place with its varied and beautiful buildings, including the Dixie Grammar School and Richmond House (1810) but one really must strike away from the town centre to really appreciate the town’s heritage. One can see the emblems of both Richard III and Henry Tudor on the street name plates. The buildings have a variety of roof lines and very impressive chimneys, indicative of Charles Tollemache Scott’s time as “Squire”. The churchyard holds the grave of one Dr Robert Pull, a “quack” who made his living selling his “medicines”. Dr Pull having collapsed in the market place was buried before night fall the same day (at the request of his wife) and is reputed to have been buried alive! Market Bosworth is also reputed to have a ghost, the “Grey Lady” but I will not spoil this story in case any of you wish to pursue the trail yourself. You can find out more by visiting www.marketbosworthsociety.com
THEATRE
Co-ordinator
Eddie Hemsley 01455 554564 (edwardhemsley@btinternet.com )
HENRY IV PART I: Review
Power struggles are exhausting for those involved. In Gregory Doran’s RSC production there is a weariness about the older generation as they try once again to resolve matters. Some fathers are beginning to look to the next generation in hopes that their sons’ youthful energy and aspiration can somehow help to break the deadlock.
The play opens as Henry IV kneels in prayer, watched over from above by the figure of Richard II, the former king deposed by Henry and his supporters, and later murdered. As the new king Henry has much on his mind, especially on how to avoid further power struggles between himself and those lords who cannot forget how he became king. In the north rebel lords led by Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland, and supported by Owen Glendower, the Welsh leader, as well as one or two Scottish lords, are plotting to depose him. Twice in this production a huge map of the kingdom is laid out on the stage, first by the rebels, then by the king and his supporters. The rebels discuss how they would divide the kingdom amongst themselves, if they are successful. Henry, however, discusses how the kingdom might be held together for the sake of all its citizens, both now and in the future.
Just as the audience is beginning to wonder if this scenario is all there is to this play, the production literally bursts into life as the first of the London tavern scenes is played out, led by Falstaff, a larger than life character who immediately charms us all with his wit and good humour, as he does the tavern regulars who include Prince Hal, the king’s son and his friends. Hal and Falstaff clearly enjoy each other’s company, but as their relationship is played out in later tavern scenes, it becomes noticeable that the prince sometimes avoids getting too closely involved in Falstaff’s antics. When the two of them agree to act out being the king, Falstaff throws himself into the role with gusto. Hal follows with his performance, when suddenly he finishes with the remark ‘I know thee not, old man’. Falstaff utterly devastated, clearly not understanding at all why Hal has said this.
The tavern scenes are an important reminder that not all the kingdom is made up of power hungry lords. Gregory Doran’s production gives them a life force that needs to be listened to, so kings can rule wisely and with understanding of all their citizens’ many different life styles. Hal’s journey from youthful ignorance to maturity could not have developed the way it did without experiencing tavern life. Falstaff, without realising it, has been an important father figure to him at a time when his own father has despaired of his son’s behaviour. Henry would even prefer Hal to be like Hotspur, played here as the over energetic young warrior son of Henry Percy, the rebel leader.
The play ends with father and son reunited. The rebels are defeated at the battle of Shrewsbury. Hal proves himself as a fighter against Hotspur in one of the longest and most compelling duals that some of us had ever seen on stage before. Hotspur dies. Hal lives to see another day, still a young man, but with a wiser understanding of the duties of kingship.
The seven of us who saw this production on April 8 thought it was well worth seeing, especially Antony Sher’s performance as Falstaff which was magnificent. Future RSC visits are planned for the autumn. More details at a later date.
Anne Smalley
1st WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP
WYCLIFFE U3A Joint Co-ordinators:
Roger Watmore 01455 552431 and
Julian Hargreaves 01455b 557704
Date of Walk – 4th June 2014
Walk organisers Vicki and Bob Davis 01455 209518
Meeting point - Coventry Road Recreation Park at 9.20 a.m. to leave at 9.30 a.m.
Directions to the Start - Access the A5 westwards towards Atherstone. Continue in this direction passing the turn off to Ashby de la Zouch (A444). Take the next turning on the left, signed for Hartshill Country Park. Continue until passing under a railway bridge and follow the road round to the left (not straight on). The Anchor Pub Inn, Mancetter Road, CV10 0RT is approx. 1/2 mile on the left. Distance approx. 18 miles. The pub has a varied and good value menu.
Route and Distance: The walk will begin with a length of the Coventry Canal before entering farmland and ascending two hills to enter Hartshill Country Park with beautiful extensive views. We then go downhill through woodland to continue to Hartshill and down to the pub. Two gradual climbs but no stiles. Approx. 6miles.
April Walk
27 walkers and 2 dogs enjoyed a six mile walk starting and finishing at The Bulls Head, Stoney Stanton. The route went through Sapcote, Sharnford and skirted Aston Flamville and was a mixture of tracks, field paths and quiet roads. No-one complained about the lack of stiles or hills! Back at the pub a good number of walkers sat down for a tasty lunch from the varied menu. A few lucky ones indulged in strawberries and cream for afters.
Peter and Mary Rolleston
4th WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP Co-ordinators:
Sue & Peter Creeden
01455 557888 553341
Wednesday 28 May 2014
Walk Organisers:- Keith & June Whiting Tel:01455 209066
Meeting Point and Time:- Lutterworth Recreation Ground car park at 9.20am to leave at 9.30am.
Start Point: The New Inn, Long Buckby Wharf NN6 7PW setting off at 10am promptly.
Directions to the Start:-. - To A5 then turn left towards London and stay on A5 passing Kilsby until you reach The New Inn (a canal pub) on the right hand side of the A5 about 4 miles after Kilsby.
Route and Distance:- The walk will start and finish with some Grand Union towpath walking. It will also incorporate field paths, bridleways, roads and tracks and will pass through Long Buckby. The walk is approximately 6.5 miles with just one or two stiles.
Lunch arrangements:- Lunches will be available at The New Inn
April 2014 Walk Report
Gill and Roger Watmore lead 17 walkers, on a bright morning, from Crick to the canal. We followed it to Yelvertoft and then returned along a track back to Crick. There was a small detour to climb Cracks Hill, and because it was a clear day, we enjoyed a panoramic view across Rugby and towards Lutterworth. Most stayed after the walk for lunch at the Red Lion.
JOINT WYCLIFFE LUTTERWORTH
And LUTTERWORTH U3A GROUPS
And groups open to WLU3A members
TUESDAY WALKING GROUP Co-ordinator:
Gordon Jones (Lutterworth U3A)
01455 556192
Walk Organizers: Dave Beaumont Tel: 01455 553341
Meeting Point: Coventry Road Recreation Ground car park
Meeting Time: 09.20 (to take meal orders). Leave at 9.30.
Route and distance: 6.3 miles of undulating terrain. We start with a 1.3 mile quiet road walk, and then pasture fields all the way to Braybrook, for coffee break. After walking through the village, we climb out of it up farm tracks, and then through pasture and arable land, down to Arthingworth.
Start Point: The Bulls Head, Arthingworth , LE16 8JZ (car parks at front and rear; side door on RHS of pub open for toilets).
Directions to the Starting Point: M1 South to A14. At J2, head North on A508. After the Harrington turning, take the Arthingworth turn, which leads directly to the pub on the left hand side in the village. Note that there is a speed camera on the A508 for the return journey.
Lunch: At the Bulls Head.
Return Mileage from Lutterworth: 36.8 miles.
JOINT GOLF GROUP (with Lutterworth U3A)
Co-ordinator (Lutterworth U3A)
Peter Moore
01455 552594
e-mail :- peter79moore@gmail.com
Next Joint Golf Day - Lutterworth and Wycliffe u3a.Organiser :- Peter Moore Tel:- 01455 552594 e-mail:- peter79moore@gmail.com The next Golf Day will be at Whetstone Golf Club on Thursday 12th June 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. £30.00 To include Coffee and Bacon Roll, Green Fee, Prizes and Dinner. (Dependant upon numbers) Don't forget to invite your Partner/wife for 2 course Dinner at 6.30pm in the Golf Club Restaurant . Cost £14.50. per person. Coffee included.
Jackets and Ties *not required
Result. Golf Day – Kilworth Springs Golf Club 17th April 2014 1st Place Alan Kemp 38 pts 2nd Place Peter Moore 36 pts, 3rd Place Fred Milsom 35 pts. Nearest The Pin - Not Won. All winners from Lutterworth u3a.
Seasons Forthcoming Golf Days
Ullesthorpe Golf Club. Thursday 7th August 2014.
Lutterworth Golf Club. Thursday 11th 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.
Our speaker this month was Roy Wood, a local Financial Advisor with 35 years of experience in wealth management. He gave a brief outline of how to get value for money in retirement, if certain rules are followed and money is invested in a variety of options, namely:
1 Stocks and Shares
2 Property
3 Gold and Silver
4 Government Bonds
5 Cash investments.
He stated that returns on investment bonds, which are tax free ,should be viewed over no less than a six year period, which should balance out losses .These are also exempt when Care Home fees are assessed.. He made further suggestions to make sure Wills were reviewed, Property was put in trust, and steps were taken to ensure two younger persons had Powers of Attorney, one to oversee health and welfare and the other to deal with financial affairs. He stated that if joint bank accounts were held, financial matters after the death of one partner ran smoothly .Finally he urged everyone to act without delay to achieve wishes on their bucket list. Free advice can be sought without obligation, for a more comprehensive overview of money management in retirement.
**********VERY IMPORTANT ADVANCE NOTICE**********
Our Summer Garden Party will be on Sunday 13th July at Misterton Hall. Details to follow, but put the date in your diary.
The August Meeting will be on the 21st August. The church will not be available to us on the 14th August, as The Embroiderers Guild has a display all week.
This is ONLY for August
GROUP REPORTS
(in alphabetical order)
ART GROUP
Co-ordinator
Chris Brady
01455 209108
After a short Easter break we will be meeting on a weekly basis every Tuesday from 2pm to 4pm, apart from May 13th. Our current theme will look at World War one posters, with which we could create a group collage. Hopefully as the weather warms up, we will be painting and sketching outdoors in and around local villages to supplement photographic records and improve observational jottings. Current members of the group have benefited from sharing positive views on completed work and enjoy time to offload good and adverse experiences during the tea break.
BOOK CHAT
Co-ordinator
Mick Curtis
01455 554504
"Cast in order of disappearance" by Simon Brett was our choice for this month and we experienced difficulties in obtaining enough copies for all to read. This highlights the problems we have had since being unable to rely on the library service to help us with our book choices. A difficulty we must revisit for us to enjoy our continuation as a book group. However we did manage to all read a Simon Brett novel with varying degrees of enjoyment. It would seem his earlier books had more structure and enjoyability than his later works which are based on the detection skills of an ill matched pair of lady sleuths in the Feathering series of mysteries.
Our next choice is "The House at Riverton" by Kate Morton hopefully a more cerebral choice.
BUFFET SUPPER CLUB
Co-ordinator
Ann Hetherington
01455 203498
ann@netcomz.com
At the second get-together of the Supper Club, eleven of us met up at Carol & Ron’s house & had a lovely evening of excellent food & friendship.
The 14th May supper will be at Vikky & Nigel Burt’s house – 01455 554498
The 11th June will be at Mary & Dave Hodgson’s – 01455 552303
Please let Vikky & Mary know if you are going & what dish you will be bringing. Also bring your own drink, plates & cutlery.
CRAFTS GROUP
Co– ordinator
Doreen Barrett
01455 550228
I have decided to take a break from my Thursday gatherings. It will begin now, up until September 2014.
So the next meeting will be on 25th September
We have been running since the start of the Wycliffe Lutterworth U3A and I think this break will give us time to enjoy our summer holidays
Thank you for your support and I look forward to seeing you again in September.
CYCLING GROUP
Co-ordinator
Nigel Bones
01455 209756
The first cycle ride of the year took place in April on a chilly but bright and sunny day when 8 intrepid cyclists braved the chill and cycled through Misterton to Walcote, down the gated road to Stanford and back to Lutterworth via Swinford. For those of us from the outlying villages of Leire, Ashby Parva and Gilmorton, the total distance was about 18 miles, but those from Lutterworth had it easy with only 12 miles or so covered. We had an excellent day though, finishing off with lunch and a drink at The Elms. Following a meeting in March for all those interested in cycling, the decision was made to have our rides on the second Tuesday of the month, and to limit the distances to around 20 miles. If anyone is interested in joining us, please contact Nigel on 01455 209756.
ETHNIC EATING
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
Wednesday 26th March – Twelve of us gathered for a “Moroccan” Meal at “La Margherita” in Rugby. They did us proud, explaining why the dishes served were so typically Moroccan – what the ingredients were - and the cultural background. We left with our stomachs well and truly satisfied – certainly a restaurant to go back to.
Wednesday 23rd April – St George’s Day and Shakespeare’s “Official” Birthday (his 450th!) – Twenty of us sat down for Dinner that night at Lutterworth Golf Club – 12 from Wycliffe U3A and 8 from Lutterworth U3A and it was very pleasant occasion. We were served a splendid three-course dinner with plenty of choice and Tea/Coffee and Mints to follow – all for the princely sum of £20 –Thank You Very Much Rebecca (of Rebecca Louise Catering). The different Courses were separated by various selections from Shakespeare, “sourced” by Jill and delivered with aplomb by Bob Howes (as Town Mayor complete with “bling”) and Dot Barnard. There was also a Shakespeare Quiz which was won by 5 ladies from Lutterworth U3A, Dot having thoughtfully provided a “prize” – a box of chocolate mints.
It was quite a “cliff-hanger” with people on the original list dropping out for various reasons and others ringing up at the last minute, including one of our ladies who was convinced she was on the list and simply rang up to check the time! All I can say is that if anyone thinks it is a good idea to celebrate either American Independence Day on the 4th July or the Bastille Day on the 14th July with a suitably “Ethnic” Dinner, they should go ahead and I will be happy to sign on on behalf of my stomach!!
Wednesday 28th May – La Casa Loco in Rugby (up the stairs in the Mini-Arcade at the back of Marks & Spencers with a Car Park nearby) Still time to sign on. They sound very welcoming and relaxed and a complete stranger told me that their Margheritas are to die for! If you do sign on the sheet, please take a Reminder Slip and make a note in your diary!
Wednesday 15th June – Dot Barnard and I are investigating a Greek Restaurant in the centre of Leicester. More information next month.
And also, something “Distinctly Different”?!
ALL THAT JAZZ – Friday 2 May - a Live Jazz Evening at Summersault Vegetarian Restaurant in Rugby. Report next month
FAMILY HISTORY
Co-ordinator
Jackie Yeo
01455 552376
There was no meeting of the family history group due to Easter. The next meeting is on Tuesday 27th May at 10am.
Lutterworth U3A Family History group's next meeting will be on Monday June 23rd at 2pm at the One Stop Shop. The speaker will be Brian Johnson, and the talk is entitled "Who do you think lived in a house like this?".
There is a £3 charge to offset the hire of the room, but excellent cakes and tea are usually provided!!
FRENCH CONVERSATION
Co-ordinator
Sue Hicks
01858 880273
24 April 2014
Easter in France was the first topic we looked at, followed by a discussion on plays, films, TV etc.
At our next meeting, on 22 May, we shall be watching a film, Romuald et Juliette, at Tony and Pearl’s house. This is described as a charming romantic comedy set against the background of boardroom intrigue, cross-cutting between the lifestyles of rich and poor and between whites and blacks. The film is directed by Coline Serreau and stars Daniel Auteuil and Firmine Richard.
GARDEN GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sue Creeden
01455 557888
For our April meeting a small group of us went on an intrepid adventure through Badby Woods to view the bluebells. It was perhaps slightly early in the season but we were certainly not disappointed; the woods were a spectacular carpet of blue. Afterwards, the local hostelry provided welcome refreshments - the cakes were delicious!
Our next meeting will be a tour of Anna Smith’s garden at Green Wicket Farm, Bitteswell on Tuesday 27th May. Anna has developed her garden from scratch over the last six years and now opens it to the public under the NGS scheme. We will meet there, which is up the drive at the side of the cricket ground in Ullesthorpe Road (LE17 4LR), at 2.30 p.m. The charge of £4.50 includes refreshments and a donation to NGS. Should the weather be inclement, the tour will be shortened and refreshments will be served indoors.
If you would like to come, please could you telephone me on the above number or email sueandpeter.creeden@talktalk.net.
Advance notice: On 24th June I am organising a trip to Barnsdale Gardens, near Oakham. I have provisionally booked the Broughton Astley mini-bus which seats 14 people. Group entry is £5.50 per person and the mini-bus will be approximately £6.50 per person. If more than 14 people would like to go, we could either lift-share in cars or I can book a larger coach through a coach company. (The cost may then vary). Again, please let me know if you would like to come.
Just for information, on Sunday 29th June Ullesthorpe are holding an ‘Open Gardens’ day. There will be many gardens to view so do pop along. Also, Sulby Gardens are open under the NGS scheme on several occasions during the year, the next date being Thursday, 19th June. They are very extensive and again, well worth a visit.
Finally, Lutterworth U3A are doing a trip to Kiftsgate, Chipping Campden on Tuesday 3rd June. The coach leaves Lutterworth at 10.30 a.m. and there will be a lunch stop in Chipping Campden. The charge of £19 includes coach and entry to the gardens. If you could like to go please let me know.
GARDEN LUNCHES
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
email grahjill@hotmail.com
Tuesday 15th April 2014 – Woodlands Nursery & Garden Centre Only 6 people went to Woodlands but said they had a terrific time with all the retail outlets available! They felt the food was OK but not over-exciting. Perhaps another time we should go elsewhere for Lunch and call for the shopping and tea and cake later in the afternoon!
Tuesday 20th May – Farndon Fields Farm Shop - Farndon Rd, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 9NP 01858 464838www.farndonfieldsfarmshop.co.uk/
A new Venue for us but one that is highly recommended by those who know it. They offer produce grown on the Farndon Fields Farm as well as locally-produced foods.
I called there for Lunch one Saturday (after filling my car boot with plants from the Market Harborough Plant Sale!) The Cafe seats about 60 and has a reasonably varied choice of Soup, Filled Rolls (well & truly Stuffed Rolls), Salads, Specials and CAKES! The Shop has a good stock of fresh vegetables as well as a fresh Meat counter. Still time to sign up and take a Reminder Slip!
Tuesday 10th June – Foxton Locks Inn - Bottom Lock, Gumley Road, Foxton, Market Harborough LE16 7RA Tel 0116 279 2525 www.restaurantfoxtonlocks.co.uk Varied Menu – Starters £4.95, Snacks & Lite Bites £6.95, Basket Meals £7.96 Mains £9.85 with a small selection of Mains available in smaller portions “for small appetites”! (Could always have 2 Starters!) See Sample Menu and Signing Up Sheet
LIVELY DISCUSSION
Co-ordinator
Dot Barnard
01455 208190
dot.barnard@uwclub.net
14th April 2014
“Can a free press be entirely faultless?”
No!!! All agreed that the press MUST remain free, but of course it’s not faultless. Some people like to know about the famous or the infamous, but that did not include us. Everyone condemned unethical practices such as phone hacking, vendettas and harassment of ordinary people - sometimes to the point of suicide - and we felt that proprietors caused problems by forcing editors sometimes to act unethically to increase circulation because of greed. Often papers were hypocritical when they changed their stance to increase sales.
The public is entitled to know what MPs, councillors etc. are doing since they work for us. In some cases such as Jimmy Savile and Cyril Smith we may prefer not to know, nevertheless the freedom of the press is vital here. Edward VIII and Mrs Simpson were reported outside the UK and yet we were most affected. The press suppressing information is equally reprehensible. Constant repetition and minute detail is irritating; we need the facts and can make our own decisions about each story. Why did we need to know the opinion of a taxi driver in the village where Peaches Geldof died?
The recent acquittals of high profile people on sexual charges brings into question the press role and reporting. It should not be free from the law or a moral code. The Telegraph supplement on MPs expenses was felt to be very good since it listed each MP and what (s)he had claimed with minimal comment. But will we ever forget the duck house? Opinion was divided on royal supplements showing Prince George or other family members.
Despite all this, without the press we wouldn’t know about thalidomide, corrupt Pakistani cricketers, Jonathan Aitken, Edward Snowden and the Arab connection to the Royal family. Now that we are aware of the ‘dirt’ it is difficult to respect politicians and public figures. We want the country run ethically but now it is hard to believe that MPs have the best interests of the UK at heart.
A couple of members don’t buy papers and get their information from radio and TV. Another felt that local papers are often inaccurate. Several people praised the Times for reporting and its commentaries.
There seems to be a change in the style of reporting across all media with emotive and vitriolic language being used, such as ‘X admitted …’ rather than ‘X said…’ or ‘Y bleated …’ rather than ‘Y explained…’ Or as mentioned in paragraph 1, ‘because of greed’ could have been changed to ‘fuelled by greed’, but it was not amended. We were unsure when this change in style took place, but it could be with the Blair government and the introduction of spin doctors.
We concluded that a free press is vital, even though it’s flawed. Our greatest wish is that the press should be regulated independently of government and itself.
June Topic : The housing crisis
*******GROUP REINSTATED*******
PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP
Co-ordinator
Mick Curtis
01455 554504
Good news! I am able to reinstate this group and our first meeting back will be on Fri. 23rd May. The subject will be Wheels
But beware group there are changes afoot. Mick
POETRY GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sylvia Hitchen
0116 247 8353
Sylvia.hitchen@btinternet.com.
Would anyone else out there like to try our little group ? The only requirement is to enjoy poetry, we simply read and discuss poems in a non expert way in a very friendly little group.
For the April meeting we had a suggested theme of song and dance and Springtime, and in line with this we read poems by Wordsworth, Belloc, Longfellow and Clare, among others. The poetry of Pam Ayres and Wendy Cope provided humour and Dot read a Sylvia Plath poem, "Night Dancing", which was difficult to discuss because none of us actually understood it.
I introduced Thomas Hardy as a poet. Here is a little bit about him:
Born 1840 in Dorset Hardy considered himself primarily a poet although he wrote arguably some of the best novels in the English language. One of his biographers maintains he wrote novels out of economic necessity and at any rate he gave up after receiving poor reviews for “Tess” and “Jude the Obscure” which was publicly burnt by a bishop protesting at its sexual nature.
Hardy has a reputation for being very pessimistic . He himself didn’t think he was, he said he was just telling things as they were but I think his novels were becoming increasingly dark.
The son of a stonemason, he started life as an architect. He married Emma Gifford in 1874 and she encouraged his literary work although they had a very difficult relationship. Nevertheless he was greatly affected by her death in 1912 and this does colour some of his work.
His poetry is very lyrical and has themes of love, religion, nature, nostalgia and a hatred of violence and cruelty. He wrote nearly a thousand poems drawing heavily on the poor and rural county where he lived all his life. He was visited by other poets such as Yeats and Sassoon and was an influence on Auden, Larkin and Robert Frost. Virginia Woolf called him a “profound and poetic genius”.
He died in 1928 and is buried in Poets Corner in Westminster Abbey.
We also discussed a couple of his poems, "The Fallow Deer at the Lonely House" and "The Darkling Thrush".
The suggested (not compulsory) theme for May is "Food and Drink". Also I will read Browning's "The Last Duchess" to see if anyone else finds it as creepy as I do.
PUB LUNCHES
Co-ordinator
Jill Graham
01455 557117
email grahjill@hotmail.com
Wednesday 2 April - The Shires, Peatling Parva – not far to drive - plenty of space and choice. Well – this is one of our regular “Watering Holes” and we were quite a large party but everything went off smoothly. They have such a long “Specials” Board that it can take some people longer to choose what they want than it does for them to eat it! We operate on the basis that people should order and pay as they arrive and this saves the Kitchen having to try to keep 20+ Meals hot (and generally failing!) Always a popular Venue, no doubt we will be back there before too long.
Wednesday 7th May - Kilworth Springs Golf Club They wanted individual Menu choices ahead of the day and they stipulated that any “No Shows” after I had rung in the choices would have to pay for the Meal. Seems a bit rough as there are 20 people on my list and of those 10 opted for Whitby Scampi, 4 for Deep Fried Fish, 3 for Lasagne, 2 for Smoked Haddock Salad and one for Poached Salmon! – Report next month.
Wednesday 4 June – The Grey Goose, Gilmorton – they have an “Early Bird Menu” which changes daily (£12.95-2 Courses/£14.95-3 courses). I was there recently for a small family dinner and we had an excellent meal. Certainly worth signing up for. DO IT TODAY – and remember to take a Reminder Slip and note it in your diary.
QUIZ GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sylvie Curtis
01455 554504
Our group met for our April meeting to answer some intriguing questions set by Joan.
We will not be meeting in June but will resume again in July
******NEW CO-ORDINATOR & LOCATION*****
SCRABBLE
Co-ordinator
Pat Hunter
01455 699935
11 Greenacres Drive
Message from June Hartopp
I wish to say “Thanks” to the Scrabble Group members who gave me such lovely presents at our last meeting. I have handed it all over to Pat Hunter who has my best wishes, and I’m sure she will do it well, especially as at that meeting she scored 82 points in one go!
SNAIL’S PACE WALKING GROUP
Co-ordinator
Sheila Eggleton
01455 554387
sheilaeggleton@yahoo.co.uk
May 16th
Our walk(s) in May will be within Bradgate Park, Leicestershire. We will start our walk from the car park at Newtown Linford at 11.30 a.m. The car park will cost £2.50. One way to reach Newtown Linford is to go along the M1, from Lutterworth or Leicester, turning off the motorway at J21A, onto the A46. Take the second turn off this road, signposted Ansley. Turn left at the roundabout, as you come off the motorway, heading towards the village. On reaching the village, at the mini roundabout turn left and follow this road until you reach Newtown Linford. At the park there will be a choice of two walks. The first will be on hard standing and totally flat, following the main path from the car park at one end to the car park at the other end. On the way back those who wish can stop at the tea rooms for refreshments before returning to the car park at Newtown Linford. It will take approx. 50minutes to do the first part of this walk. For those who want something a little more challenging we will accompany the main group along the pathway, detouring uphill around the lower slopes of the hill until making our way back down to the pathway and re-joining the group at the tea rooms, for those who wish. Stronger footwear may be required if you complete the second of the two walks.
21st March
On a lovely, warm spring morning twelve of us joined an organised walking trail of Market Bosworth. The walk started with lovely refreshments at the Forge in Park Street during which we were able to view old photographic images of Market Bosworth. It would take far too much space to give credit to the wonderful anecdotes and historical facts we were given by our guides. Many visitors may not get beyond the Market Place with its varied and beautiful buildings, including the Dixie Grammar School and Richmond House (1810) but one really must strike away from the town centre to really appreciate the town’s heritage. One can see the emblems of both Richard III and Henry Tudor on the street name plates. The buildings have a variety of roof lines and very impressive chimneys, indicative of Charles Tollemache Scott’s time as “Squire”. The churchyard holds the grave of one Dr Robert Pull, a “quack” who made his living selling his “medicines”. Dr Pull having collapsed in the market place was buried before night fall the same day (at the request of his wife) and is reputed to have been buried alive! Market Bosworth is also reputed to have a ghost, the “Grey Lady” but I will not spoil this story in case any of you wish to pursue the trail yourself. You can find out more by visiting www.marketbosworthsociety.com
THEATRE
Co-ordinator
Eddie Hemsley 01455 554564 (edwardhemsley@btinternet.com )
HENRY IV PART I: Review
Power struggles are exhausting for those involved. In Gregory Doran’s RSC production there is a weariness about the older generation as they try once again to resolve matters. Some fathers are beginning to look to the next generation in hopes that their sons’ youthful energy and aspiration can somehow help to break the deadlock.
The play opens as Henry IV kneels in prayer, watched over from above by the figure of Richard II, the former king deposed by Henry and his supporters, and later murdered. As the new king Henry has much on his mind, especially on how to avoid further power struggles between himself and those lords who cannot forget how he became king. In the north rebel lords led by Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland, and supported by Owen Glendower, the Welsh leader, as well as one or two Scottish lords, are plotting to depose him. Twice in this production a huge map of the kingdom is laid out on the stage, first by the rebels, then by the king and his supporters. The rebels discuss how they would divide the kingdom amongst themselves, if they are successful. Henry, however, discusses how the kingdom might be held together for the sake of all its citizens, both now and in the future.
Just as the audience is beginning to wonder if this scenario is all there is to this play, the production literally bursts into life as the first of the London tavern scenes is played out, led by Falstaff, a larger than life character who immediately charms us all with his wit and good humour, as he does the tavern regulars who include Prince Hal, the king’s son and his friends. Hal and Falstaff clearly enjoy each other’s company, but as their relationship is played out in later tavern scenes, it becomes noticeable that the prince sometimes avoids getting too closely involved in Falstaff’s antics. When the two of them agree to act out being the king, Falstaff throws himself into the role with gusto. Hal follows with his performance, when suddenly he finishes with the remark ‘I know thee not, old man’. Falstaff utterly devastated, clearly not understanding at all why Hal has said this.
The tavern scenes are an important reminder that not all the kingdom is made up of power hungry lords. Gregory Doran’s production gives them a life force that needs to be listened to, so kings can rule wisely and with understanding of all their citizens’ many different life styles. Hal’s journey from youthful ignorance to maturity could not have developed the way it did without experiencing tavern life. Falstaff, without realising it, has been an important father figure to him at a time when his own father has despaired of his son’s behaviour. Henry would even prefer Hal to be like Hotspur, played here as the over energetic young warrior son of Henry Percy, the rebel leader.
The play ends with father and son reunited. The rebels are defeated at the battle of Shrewsbury. Hal proves himself as a fighter against Hotspur in one of the longest and most compelling duals that some of us had ever seen on stage before. Hotspur dies. Hal lives to see another day, still a young man, but with a wiser understanding of the duties of kingship.
The seven of us who saw this production on April 8 thought it was well worth seeing, especially Antony Sher’s performance as Falstaff which was magnificent. Future RSC visits are planned for the autumn. More details at a later date.
Anne Smalley
1st WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP
WYCLIFFE U3A Joint Co-ordinators:
Roger Watmore 01455 552431 and
Julian Hargreaves 01455b 557704
Date of Walk – 4th June 2014
Walk organisers Vicki and Bob Davis 01455 209518
Meeting point - Coventry Road Recreation Park at 9.20 a.m. to leave at 9.30 a.m.
Directions to the Start - Access the A5 westwards towards Atherstone. Continue in this direction passing the turn off to Ashby de la Zouch (A444). Take the next turning on the left, signed for Hartshill Country Park. Continue until passing under a railway bridge and follow the road round to the left (not straight on). The Anchor Pub Inn, Mancetter Road, CV10 0RT is approx. 1/2 mile on the left. Distance approx. 18 miles. The pub has a varied and good value menu.
Route and Distance: The walk will begin with a length of the Coventry Canal before entering farmland and ascending two hills to enter Hartshill Country Park with beautiful extensive views. We then go downhill through woodland to continue to Hartshill and down to the pub. Two gradual climbs but no stiles. Approx. 6miles.
April Walk
27 walkers and 2 dogs enjoyed a six mile walk starting and finishing at The Bulls Head, Stoney Stanton. The route went through Sapcote, Sharnford and skirted Aston Flamville and was a mixture of tracks, field paths and quiet roads. No-one complained about the lack of stiles or hills! Back at the pub a good number of walkers sat down for a tasty lunch from the varied menu. A few lucky ones indulged in strawberries and cream for afters.
Peter and Mary Rolleston
4th WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP Co-ordinators:
Sue & Peter Creeden
01455 557888 553341
Wednesday 28 May 2014
Walk Organisers:- Keith & June Whiting Tel:01455 209066
Meeting Point and Time:- Lutterworth Recreation Ground car park at 9.20am to leave at 9.30am.
Start Point: The New Inn, Long Buckby Wharf NN6 7PW setting off at 10am promptly.
Directions to the Start:-. - To A5 then turn left towards London and stay on A5 passing Kilsby until you reach The New Inn (a canal pub) on the right hand side of the A5 about 4 miles after Kilsby.
Route and Distance:- The walk will start and finish with some Grand Union towpath walking. It will also incorporate field paths, bridleways, roads and tracks and will pass through Long Buckby. The walk is approximately 6.5 miles with just one or two stiles.
Lunch arrangements:- Lunches will be available at The New Inn
April 2014 Walk Report
Gill and Roger Watmore lead 17 walkers, on a bright morning, from Crick to the canal. We followed it to Yelvertoft and then returned along a track back to Crick. There was a small detour to climb Cracks Hill, and because it was a clear day, we enjoyed a panoramic view across Rugby and towards Lutterworth. Most stayed after the walk for lunch at the Red Lion.
JOINT WYCLIFFE LUTTERWORTH
And LUTTERWORTH U3A GROUPS
And groups open to WLU3A members
TUESDAY WALKING GROUP Co-ordinator:
Gordon Jones (Lutterworth U3A)
01455 556192
Walk Organizers: Dave Beaumont Tel: 01455 553341
Meeting Point: Coventry Road Recreation Ground car park
Meeting Time: 09.20 (to take meal orders). Leave at 9.30.
Route and distance: 6.3 miles of undulating terrain. We start with a 1.3 mile quiet road walk, and then pasture fields all the way to Braybrook, for coffee break. After walking through the village, we climb out of it up farm tracks, and then through pasture and arable land, down to Arthingworth.
Start Point: The Bulls Head, Arthingworth , LE16 8JZ (car parks at front and rear; side door on RHS of pub open for toilets).
Directions to the Starting Point: M1 South to A14. At J2, head North on A508. After the Harrington turning, take the Arthingworth turn, which leads directly to the pub on the left hand side in the village. Note that there is a speed camera on the A508 for the return journey.
Lunch: At the Bulls Head.
Return Mileage from Lutterworth: 36.8 miles.
JOINT GOLF GROUP (with Lutterworth U3A)
Co-ordinator (Lutterworth U3A)
Peter Moore
01455 552594
e-mail :- peter79moore@gmail.com
Next Joint Golf Day - Lutterworth and Wycliffe u3a.Organiser :- Peter Moore Tel:- 01455 552594 e-mail:- peter79moore@gmail.com The next Golf Day will be at Whetstone Golf Club on Thursday 12th June 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. £30.00 To include Coffee and Bacon Roll, Green Fee, Prizes and Dinner. (Dependant upon numbers) Don't forget to invite your Partner/wife for 2 course Dinner at 6.30pm in the Golf Club Restaurant . Cost £14.50. per person. Coffee included.
Jackets and Ties *not required
Result. Golf Day – Kilworth Springs Golf Club 17th April 2014 1st Place Alan Kemp 38 pts 2nd Place Peter Moore 36 pts, 3rd Place Fred Milsom 35 pts. Nearest The Pin - Not Won. All winners from Lutterworth u3a.
Seasons Forthcoming Golf Days
Ullesthorpe Golf Club. Thursday 7th August 2014.
Lutterworth Golf Club. Thursday 11th 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.
