Bird Watching Group
The 1st outing of the new Birdwatching Group took place on 17th October at the Kent Wildlife Trust’s Sevenoaks Reserve, when 8 ‘early birds’ joined David to see what was around on a fine October morning. A walk around the lakes provided good views of several duck species as well as grebes, geese and gulls! Some sharp-eyed members even spotted a kingfisher, but everyone could admire the exotic mandarin ducks, especially the male with his bright colours. Fortunately, David was on hand to point out the various species to the beginners amongst the group and explain the seasonal plumage changes noticed. He also explained how sad it was to see how few lapwings were present as they used to appear in vast numbers. |
|
Henry VIII visits Westerham on the 12 October
Nobody quite knew what to expect when we were told stand at the beginning of the open meeting! There were gasps of amazement when Henry Vlll appeared in all his finery, complete with paunch and an impressive codpiece! He conversed with the audience, talking us through his colourful and eventful life. This was historically accurate but hilariously presented, so different from our schooldays! Tony finished by expressing disappointment that everybody had been too embarrassed to ask about his outsize codpiece! He goes all over the country as Henry Vlll - including appearing at Hampton Court and the Mary Rose Experience in Portsmouth - and many visitors want to be photographed with him. Apparently, they are often tempted to tweak his codpiece, so he has had it fitted with a squeak to identify the culprits! He then left the room with a royal flourish leaving us all in hysterics! He currently has 22 historical characters - including Maggie Thatcher! – in his repertoire and it was unanimously agreed that we want him back - and soon!
Nobody quite knew what to expect when we were told stand at the beginning of the open meeting! There were gasps of amazement when Henry Vlll appeared in all his finery, complete with paunch and an impressive codpiece! He conversed with the audience, talking us through his colourful and eventful life. This was historically accurate but hilariously presented, so different from our schooldays! Tony finished by expressing disappointment that everybody had been too embarrassed to ask about his outsize codpiece! He goes all over the country as Henry Vlll - including appearing at Hampton Court and the Mary Rose Experience in Portsmouth - and many visitors want to be photographed with him. Apparently, they are often tempted to tweak his codpiece, so he has had it fitted with a squeak to identify the culprits! He then left the room with a royal flourish leaving us all in hysterics! He currently has 22 historical characters - including Maggie Thatcher! – in his repertoire and it was unanimously agreed that we want him back - and soon!
Quiz Afternoon on Thursday 14th September at 2.00pm
Our very own Quiz Master & question setter, Colin, presided over proceedings as 10 teams of 6 battled it out to become Westerham u3a Quiz champions! Sublects included General Knowledge, Musicals and History which resulted in much hilarity and a few arguments! Tea and cake at half time brought a welcome relief for the weary brains but eventually 'The Insiders' proved to be the winners. This was only after a nail biting tie breaker with 'The Local Geniuses' - "guess the random 4 figure number that Colin had written down"!! Obviously The Insiders are practised in telepathy as their guess (4375) was amazingly close!
Our very own Quiz Master & question setter, Colin, presided over proceedings as 10 teams of 6 battled it out to become Westerham u3a Quiz champions! Sublects included General Knowledge, Musicals and History which resulted in much hilarity and a few arguments! Tea and cake at half time brought a welcome relief for the weary brains but eventually 'The Insiders' proved to be the winners. This was only after a nail biting tie breaker with 'The Local Geniuses' - "guess the random 4 figure number that Colin had written down"!! Obviously The Insiders are practised in telepathy as their guess (4375) was amazingly close!
‘The Changing Fortunes of the Birds of Western Kent’ a talk on Monday September 11th 2.30pm
The new contact for our Birdwatching Group, David Rumsey , gave a talk to which all were invited. Complete beginners or well seasoned birders were welcomed to discover more about the birds that can be found in our area - if you know where to look! David also gave details of his future plans for the group which will include visits to various birding sites. For more information about the group contact westerhamU3A@hotmail.co.uk
The new contact for our Birdwatching Group, David Rumsey , gave a talk to which all were invited. Complete beginners or well seasoned birders were welcomed to discover more about the birds that can be found in our area - if you know where to look! David also gave details of his future plans for the group which will include visits to various birding sites. For more information about the group contact westerhamU3A@hotmail.co.uk
|
10th Anniversary Tea on August 10th
Over 100 members gathered for a delicious afternoon tea, supplied by The Courtyard Café, to celebrate our 10th anniversary. We were very honoured to entertain 7 of the original committee members who worked so hard to establish the group - Tina, Kay, Sharon, Jane, Linda, Lyn and Stuart. Sadly, the original chair, Jackie, could not attend due to ill health. There was much animated conversation and hilarity as sandwiches, jam and cream scones and assorted cakes were devoured with gusto! The entertainment was provided by Colin Hill, Eileen Perryer and Hilary Moore, members of the play reading group, who caused much amusement with their updated versions of Ronnie Barker sketches ‘Hamlet’ and ‘Mastermind’. The amazing anniversary cake, created by Sharon, was much admired before Stuart attacked it with a very large knife! Fortunately, the caterers rescued both the knife and the cake before he could do further damage and slices were distributed to all. The raffle prizes were claimed and the afternoon came to an end |
Two Kinds of Teardrops by Michael Grillo
Combining his considerable experience as a qualified lecturer in Further Education with his varied and extensive knowledge of the music industry – Michael produced an absorbing talk which is unique in its field. His narration was interspersed with integrated music excerpts. ‘Two Kinds of Teardrops’ included several interesting anecdotes about many of the songs that these iconic artists recorded – providing an insight into their shared experiences – not just via their music – but also through their own personal lives. So, whether you’re a fan of these two pop icons from the golden age of the 60’s – or just curious about the lasting legacy they have left on popular music – this was a presentation with a difference.
Combining his considerable experience as a qualified lecturer in Further Education with his varied and extensive knowledge of the music industry – Michael produced an absorbing talk which is unique in its field. His narration was interspersed with integrated music excerpts. ‘Two Kinds of Teardrops’ included several interesting anecdotes about many of the songs that these iconic artists recorded – providing an insight into their shared experiences – not just via their music – but also through their own personal lives. So, whether you’re a fan of these two pop icons from the golden age of the 60’s – or just curious about the lasting legacy they have left on popular music – this was a presentation with a difference.
Trip to Windsor Castle - Monday June 12th
On a sunny Monday morning, fifty members joined the coach for a trip to Windsor. The town was very busy with tourists and school parties but there was time for a coffee before joining the queue for the Castle, which dominates the town. The main attraction was St George’s Chapel where the late Queen Elizabeth ll was interred last year - and this proved quite emotional for some! Walking through the highly ornate State Apartments the décor was much admired, especially the ceilings with their intricate decorations. Charles ll provided rooms for his mistresses but Nell Gwynn, his favourite, was provided with her own house. Having no children by his wife, Charles made up for it by having at least 11 by his mistresses! After touring the castle complex, there was plenty of time to take refreshment and some even walked down the Long Walk through the park – although not all the way! Of added interest was the train station which is now surrounded by the Royal Windsor Shopping Mall – complete with a locomotive! Thanks to Val Cahill for organising a lovely day out.
On a sunny Monday morning, fifty members joined the coach for a trip to Windsor. The town was very busy with tourists and school parties but there was time for a coffee before joining the queue for the Castle, which dominates the town. The main attraction was St George’s Chapel where the late Queen Elizabeth ll was interred last year - and this proved quite emotional for some! Walking through the highly ornate State Apartments the décor was much admired, especially the ceilings with their intricate decorations. Charles ll provided rooms for his mistresses but Nell Gwynn, his favourite, was provided with her own house. Having no children by his wife, Charles made up for it by having at least 11 by his mistresses! After touring the castle complex, there was plenty of time to take refreshment and some even walked down the Long Walk through the park – although not all the way! Of added interest was the train station which is now surrounded by the Royal Windsor Shopping Mall – complete with a locomotive! Thanks to Val Cahill for organising a lovely day out.
As part of our 10th Anniversary of the formation of Westerham u3a we celebrated by holding an Open Day on Thursday 8th June
The Interest Groups were asked to create an individual display illustrating their activities and the results were amazing! The Flower Arrangers stole the show but all the tables were enthusiastically manned by members who shared their passions with the many visitors and, hopefully attracted new recruits. At least a dozen new members signed up on the day, one of the first being Colin Mafham who is looking forward to joining a Wine Appreciation Group as well as experiencing some theatre visits. In addition to the displays there were demonstrations of Mahjong, Quilting and Yoga, and music from the Ukelele strummers - with a very welcome break for tea and cake when a rest was needed! We were honoured to have the company of a distinguished visitor, Susie Berry, u3a Trustee S E Region, who seemed impressed by what she saw - lots of people taking a real interest in u3a activities.
The Interest Groups were asked to create an individual display illustrating their activities and the results were amazing! The Flower Arrangers stole the show but all the tables were enthusiastically manned by members who shared their passions with the many visitors and, hopefully attracted new recruits. At least a dozen new members signed up on the day, one of the first being Colin Mafham who is looking forward to joining a Wine Appreciation Group as well as experiencing some theatre visits. In addition to the displays there were demonstrations of Mahjong, Quilting and Yoga, and music from the Ukelele strummers - with a very welcome break for tea and cake when a rest was needed! We were honoured to have the company of a distinguished visitor, Susie Berry, u3a Trustee S E Region, who seemed impressed by what she saw - lots of people taking a real interest in u3a activities.
|
Open Meeting Thursday 11th May 2023 2pm D.H.Lawrence - a talk by Dudley Nichols
D.H. Lawrence travelled the world to gain inspiration for his novels, poems and essays. Dudley highlighted the major influences on his work and also looked at the relationship between Lawrence and The Burrows family and his depiction of them in “The Rainbow” and “Women in Love”. He showed that his aunt, Louie Burrows, maintained a strong spiritual relationship with Lawrence after their broken engagement and right up to the end of her life. |
|
‘Behind the Scenes’ tour of Coolings Garden Centre, Knockholt
Due to its popularity, two visits to the Garden Centre were organised, visiting areas not normally open to the public. They were hosted by Ian, one of the senior managers, who explained how the company, which is now 75% owned by its employees, purchases most of its bedding plants as trays of seedlings. These are automatically pricked out into larger trays, the machines even recognising where there is a gap amongst the 350 seedlings and take a replacement from another tray! Ian also gave us lots of advice and tips and after a fascinating and informative walk there was a lovely cream tea for all to enjoy. |
|
Fame for our Crafty Crafters!
Our handicraft group was asked to contribute paper flowers for Chartwell's 'Festival of Blossom' week beginning 22nd April. The festival was inspired by a love letter from Winston Churchill to his wife in 1950 and will run until April 30th. The paper artist Gude Hudson-Gool has worked with 'talented groups from the local community' to create willow arches smothered with origami flowers. |
|
Open Meeting Thursday 13th April 2023 2pm Gossip at the Royal Court 1660-1830 by Sarah Slater
Sarah, who is theatrically trained, works for Historic Royal Palaces, based at Hampton Court, where she acts as a guide - dressed in period costume. She is also a popular presenter and after dinner speaker. Sarah will talk about all the naughty bits of history you would probably not have learnt about at school! She will discuss royal mistresses, prostitution, sexual diseases of the time and the methods used to prevent STDs and unwanted pregnancies! |
|
A presentation on The 'East India Company' - 30th March 2023
Penny worked for 22 years at the British Library where she was responsible for 9 miles of archives generated by the East India Company! She was intrigued by references to the influences on British life, including architecture and style, and since retiring she has had the opportunity to delve deeper. Her talk on this fascinating subject, which was attended by over 30 members, traced the history of the company and emphasized the effect the organisation had on the buildings in London and elsewhere and was followed by a lively discussion. A trip to the Brighton Pavilion was suggested as an outing for later in the year. |
Open Meeting Thursday 9th March 2023 2pm The Orpheus Centre by Ann Lovelace MBE
Ann Lovelace, who is a member of Westerham u3a, is a retired secondary teacher of English and a former author and educational consultant. She talked about the Orpheus Centre, where she is a volunteer. Orpheus is an independent specialist college in Godstone, founded by entertainer and broadcaster Sir Richard Stilgoe, that increases the confidence and skills of young disabled adults through the performing arts. Ann also introduced a surprise guest - Angus, a former Orpheus student with a fabulous voice who sang several songs for us. His rendering of 'Bring Him Home' from Les Miserables, brought tears to our eyes!
Ann Lovelace, who is a member of Westerham u3a, is a retired secondary teacher of English and a former author and educational consultant. She talked about the Orpheus Centre, where she is a volunteer. Orpheus is an independent specialist college in Godstone, founded by entertainer and broadcaster Sir Richard Stilgoe, that increases the confidence and skills of young disabled adults through the performing arts. Ann also introduced a surprise guest - Angus, a former Orpheus student with a fabulous voice who sang several songs for us. His rendering of 'Bring Him Home' from Les Miserables, brought tears to our eyes!
|
Open Meeting Thursday 9th February 2023 2pm Kent’s Suffragettes by Jennifer Godfrey
Jennifer Godfrey, author of SUFFRAGETTES OF KENT, gave an interesting talk on the hope, determination, courage and sacrifice of those campaigning for women’s suffrage in Kent. Topics covered included a peaceful suffrage pilgrimage, suffrage van tours and militant action in Kent. She brought the characters to life with stories of Ethel, a Kent working class maid arrested and imprisoned for window-smashing in London as well as the boycotting of the 1911 census and the horrors of forcible feeding. After the talk she signed copies of her book |
|
Christmas Lunch December 2022
On the coldest day of the year so far, around 90 members were hardy enough to attend the Christmas lunch at Westerham Golf Club. The temperature outside was -3℃, the sky was blue and the sun shone brightly on the frosty greens and sparkling fountain. Inside there was a warm welcome and in the beautifully decorated dining area a lovely 3-course festive meal was served with coffee and mince pies to follow. In addition to the digestive treats there was also a raffle with heaps of prizes and the inevitable brain exercise in the form of 3 quizzes: Christmas songs/singers, Cryptic clues for UK towns and Old Kent words. Tony thanked all those who had contributed to a most successful occasion. A great opportunity to chat with friends old and new - roll on next year! (Thanks to Kathy Johnson for this report) |
|
Visits to Tollsworth Manor, June 2022
During three separate visits over 60 members spent a most interesting and memorable afternoon at the home of Gordon Gillett in his beautiful Grade II* Listed Hall House. Gordon described the history of the site since 675 AD, including its use as a Monastic Farm with links with Merton Abbey. After the Reformation the property was owned by Henry VIII but there was no evidence of him actually residing there. More recently it was owned by the YHA in a somewhat dilapidated condition and Gordon purchased it with his late wife Carol in 1983. Gordon gave us a most humorous and informative presentation of Tollsworth Manor saying how they could see it’s great potential and subsequently made a heartfelt decision to restore it. Gordon concentrated on the interior of the Manor and with Carol’s love of gardening, she created a beautifully stocked cottage garden with a very old huge Sycamore tree which stands in all its glory in the back garden. Gordon and Carol started raising money for Cancer related charities with Christmas Fairs in 1984 and since 1990 with Open Gardens. As a result of Westerham U3A’s visits, over £1,400 will have been raised for St Catherines Hospice as our payments have been matched by other funders of the Hospice. Next year’s Open Garden for St. Catherine’s Hospice is on 11th June 2023. |