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Living proof that walking is FUN!
www.blandfordu3a.co.uk
NEWSLETTER—SUMMER 08
March Open Meeting & AGM
Durweston Village Hall
Friday 27th March at 2pm - see Page 6
www.blandfordu3a.co.uk
NEWSLETTER— SPRING 2015
“If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?”
Percy Byshe Shelley
As I write this, it’s only the end of
February and yet already snowdrops are
here in drifts and miniature daffodils are
peeping through. What marvellous comfort
there is in these yearly miracles when all
around us, the world, as we know it, seems
to be sinking into some sort of quagmire of
lost principles and disappearing ethics.
And on top of this, there’s a General
Election looming! Do we really deserve
this?! Hibernation until the end of May is most alluring!
However, we in the U3A are lucky as we have a full programme of
activities of all sorts to look forward to and engage in. There are not only
the old favourites to enjoy but new groups to savour and we hope that
many of you will find areas of interest that you have not previously
considered.
We have already held our first social event of the year – a Quiz
Afternoon, with Cakes! Some sixty of us squeezed our way into the Parish
Centre on February 17th to enjoy a chatty afternoon – with some questions!
These had been prepared, and were read out loud and clear, by Val Hodge.
The questions were do-able but at the same time, challenging so a good
afternoon was had by all. Many thanks to Val and to Jocelyn Jenkins for
the delicious array of cakes that fortified us during the interval!
We would like to encourage you to come to our next Open Meeting on 27th
March in Durweston Village Hall which will be rounded off with a very
short AGM. This will be after we have heard a talk on the Royal Naval
Division which was a big presence in Blandford during WW1.
2
NOTES FROM THE CHAIR
Welcome to our first Newsletter of 2015. I don’t know about you but
I’m really looking forward to some sunshine and glorious spring
weather so that I can dust down the garden furniture and enjoy some
time among the daffodils.
B&DU3A has had a busy start to the year: membership renewals
poured in to Gill Jackson, our Membership Secretary, our first open meeting and social
afternoon of the year were both well attended and the new interest groups which started last
year are all forging ahead with members exchanging new ideas and information and,
hopefully, enjoying time spent with new friends. All great stuff!
The start of a new year is always a time to look back, so I would like to take this opportunity
to thank the ‘management team’ for all their work over the past twelve months - group
leaders and committee members. Without our group leaders we wouldn’t have the
opportunity to enjoy such a diverse range of subjects. They are the people who keep the
U3A ethos of shared learning alive and without whom we wouldn’t exist. Then there are
the members of the committee who work together to provide the administrative and physical
support needed to keep a U3A functioning – some are also group leaders but all give of their
time freely to ensure members continue to get the most out of their membership. Thank you
one and all.
Talking committee, this issue sees the annual call to members to come along to our AGM,
which will be held at the end of the afternoon at our open meeting at Durweston on Friday
27 March. Since unfortunately losing both Ann Robinson and Pauline Adams from the
committee in recent months, we were delighted to welcome Pam Rees as a co-opted member
earlier this year and to have her on the team – I’m sure we will have a specific role for her
before too long!! However, we do still have a vacancy to fill. It’s always good to have new
people with new ideas on board, so come and talk to us if you would like to help.
There’s always plenty going on within B&DU3A, but don’t forget there are also a lot of
activities offered to members within the U3A movement nationally from talks and concerts
to summer schools – news of all sorts of events can be found on the national U3A website
www.u3a.org.uk, within the pages of Third Age Matters and also on our notice board at
open meetings.
Wishing everyone a great spring and looking forward to seeing you at our AGM at the end
of the month.
Christine Smith
3
DOES SHE WANT RED APPLES OR GREEN APPLES?
This question began a sequence of events which led, ultimately, to the forming of the Charity
“Woofability”. The speaker this afternoon was Andy Clarke, the co-founder of the charity,
and husband of Jenny, the driving force behind it. Jenny died last year but it was her life,
fortitude and spirit which enabled the charity to be created and developed.
Some years before, Jenny suffered a life-changing accident and from being active,
independent and running a successful business, she became immobile and dependent on
others for her every need. Hospitalised for a year, Jenny eventually returned home with her
mother as full time carer. Joyful at being able to get out, Jenny asked her mother to wheel
her to the local shops, but her euphoria was short lived, for, on asking a shop assistant for a
pound of apples, she watched her turn to her mother and enquire whether Jenny wanted red
apples or green ones.
Feeling hurt and humiliated, Jenny did not go out again for many years until she received
an assistance dog and once more her life changed dramatically. Jenny could now go out
with the dog as her escort and was far more independent. People still ignored Jenny at first,
but this was only because they were speaking to the dog. Perfectly acceptable!
Jenny and Andy began fund raising for the charity who supplied Jenny’s assistance dog and
were soon very successful, but were dismayed to find that the money raised was spent all
over the UK with none of it being earmarked for the local area. Sympathetically, the charity
suggested that, with their support, Jenny and Andy could form their own local Charity. Thus
“Woofability” came into being.
Whilst this informative talk was being given, it is not true to say that Andy had everybody’s
attention - that was being given to the Charity’s canine representative, Bubba! Handled by
Andy’s daughter, Sarah, who also works for the charity, he was impeccably behaved during
the talk and soon had the audience eating out of his hand (!)
To demonstrate his skills, a replica of a full sized washing machine was on the stage and
Bubba came into his own. He demonstrated opening the machine, removing the clothes and
then closing the door. Assistance dogs pick up items from the floor without command and
this Bubba did. When he demonstrated that he could pick up coins – that was impressive.
Bubba was rewarded after every task, as are all the dogs, and Bubba showed his awareness
of that practice by re-opening the washing machine door and popping his head in even after
he had removed all items! This caused much amusement and Bubba was again rewarded.
Although Assistance dogs are mainly for those who are unable, physically, to do certain
tasks, Andy told us some moving stories of how dogs have helped able-bodied people to
overcome trauma, proving the worth of this local charity.
Continued on next page:
4
Continued:
Local in this instance means Dorset, Hampshire and Salisbury and, impressively, all funds
collected stay in this area. The preparation of the dogs too is impressive. Chosen at just six
weeks old, they stay with the mother until they are weaned. They are then brought to the
centre in Verwood and kept partly in the house and partly in heated kennels. They are not
formally trained as Assistance dogs until they are twenty months old but spend their time
receiving ordinary dog training, learning to sit and obey and to defecate on demand. During
this time they also spend time socialising with other families – overnight at first and then
for longer periods to ensure that it is not too much of a shock when they go to their new
permanent home. Everything is done to enable a problem-free situation when they are fully
trained and ready to go to their new partner, where they will probably spend the next ten
years of their lives. Care does not stop there as the Charity sees the whole of the dogs’ lives
as part of their responsibility and cares for them accordingly.
A plea for money was not made but statistics for this volunteer-led charity were given and,
at the end of this fascinating presentation, cash boxes were overflowing.
June Lane
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
EMBARRASSING MOMENT
Some years ago, I used to compile and present a quiz on Sunday evenings, in a local pub,
run by friends of mine. The pub itself was a typical Dorset country pub, semi-rural,
sprawling ground floor with many partitioned areas to eat and drink and a central 'L' shaped
bar. The upper floor was set within the thatched roof and provided accommodation for the
landlord and his wife.
At the end of the Sunday evening session, when all the customers had left, and the clearing
up had been completed, the landlord would buy all the staff, including me, a drink ,and we
would sit and have a chit chat.
On one such evening he announced that he was going to call the dogs down from upstairs.
I remarked that I didn't know he had any dogs. He replied that he had a Labrador and a
Great Dane. I expressed surprise that I had been running the quiz for nearly a year and had
no idea that he owned such big dogs. The Labrador was the first one to come down into the
bar ....... silly soft thing he was too.... couldn't walk for wagging, straight over onto his back
for 'tickle tums'. Then I heard the Great Dane coming down. I said "Good Heavens, listen
to this thing coming down the stairs!" The door opened and it was the landlady
............................... !
Victoria Marlow
5
NEXT OPEN MEETING
AND ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Friday, 27th March 2015
in
DURWESTON VILLAGE HALL
Time Table:
Speaker:
Title:
2.00 – 2.15
2.15 – 3.00
3.00 – 3.30
3.30 – 4.00
Meeting, greeting and seating
Speaker
Refreshments
AGM and Announcements
BOB BRANNIGAN
“The Royal Naval Division”
Blandford Camp was the “home” of the RND during the winter of 1914-15 where their
presence made a big impact on the area, especially on the local lasses! They were a crack
fighting unit and 9000 of their men served gallantly in the disastrous Gallipoli campaign.
Amongst many well known “sons” of the RND was the poet, Rupert Brooke.
50p FOR TEA/COFFEE & HOMEMADE CAKE
The break will be followed by a very short AGM and Announcements
The Book Exchange Table will be there as usual. There is no charge for this facility – it’s
entirely free! Make room on your shelves for some summer reading and bring your
discarded books to the Book Exchange! Paperbacks only please, in good condition.
Thank you for observing the above timetable giving us the time we need to set out
refreshments, books and chairs. We will put seats in the Reception Area for you
while you wait for the doors to open at 2.00pm. There are pegs for coats and don’t
forget to give your name on arrival to the person on the Reception Desk.
In an effort to keep the AGM as short as possible, as well as to cut down on
paperwork, the Chairman’s and Treasurer’s Reports, and the year’s Accounts, are
printed in this Newsletter on the following pages.
PLEASE BRING IT WITH YOU TO THE MEETING
6
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
“The U3A is a unique and exciting organisation, which provides, through its U3As, life-enhancing and lifechanging opportunities. Members share their skills and life experiences: the learners teach and the
teachers learn, and there is no distinction between them. ”
Recognise these words? They are quoted from the home page of the U3A national website, they
appear on much of the U3A’s publicity material and they encapsulate the ethos of the U3A. I very much
hope everyone agrees that B&DU3A is living up to this philosophy. Sharing skills and knowledge comes
in many guises but it’s all so much more enjoyable when done with a little help from our friends.
During 2014 our many and varied interest groups continued to prosper and a number of members
came forward to volunteer their help in setting up new groups – the two most recent being Poetry Writing
and Russian – for which we are grateful. No U3A wants to stand still and so it’s vital to have new groups
coming on line, although there may be some casualties along the way. It’s this ebb and flow which keeps
any U3A alive and well and to all those who contribute to what we do, we say “thank you”.
Activities during the past year also included our ever-popular open meetings and social events
including a skittles match against colleagues from Sturminster Newton U3A, as well as visits to beautiful
gardens, the theatre, historic houses and museums. Plus lots of chat, tea and of course home-made cakes!
2014 saw another successful year for Blandford & District U3A, albeit one with no great highs but then
again – thankfully – no distressing lows! We will all – committee members and group leaders alike - be
aiming for another productive year in 2015 and with the support of you, our members, will be looking to
continue introducing new groups and hopefully some more inter-U3A events in partnership with U3A
groups in West Dorset.
Christine Smith, Chairman
TREASURER’S REPORT
As is to be expected, our main source of revenue is from annual subscriptions and in 2014 we saw an
increase in membership to 278 and a subsequent rise in income of £88 to give us a total Subscription income
for the year of £3,928.00.
Despite the fact that we have yet to claim Gift Aid against membership fees for 2013 – there have been
changes in HMRC procedures which have resulted in a delay in making our claim – and this is therefore
missing from the 2014 accounts. Overall income for the 12 months rose by approximately £700 over the
previous year, due mainly to increased income from Group Outings, plus monies paid by some members
towards the cost of Hall Hire. This income is however offset by the equivalent expenditure associated with
these activities.
Expenditure over the year has seen highs and lows: a saving of about £300 was made over the previous
year following a change of printing company for our Newsletter but Office Expenses have risen by over a
hundred pounds due to escalating costs in most areas, such as photocopying, postage and stationery. The
high cost of Hall Hire includes invoices for bookings in 2015 and Group Visits includes the cost of theatre
tickets for which the equivalent cheques from members had not been banked prior to the end of the year.
We have finished the year with a small deficit of £81.23.
However, our bank account still shows a healthy balance at £6,921.75 which is above the level suggested
by National Office. In the circumstances, the committee is recommending a reduction in membership fees
next year to £7.50pp and £14.00 for a couple – we are a non-profit making organisation and need to reduce
our bank balance in ways which will benefit all members.
Christine Smith, Hon. Treasurer
7
END OF YEAR ACCOUNT 2014
BLANDFORD & DISTRICT U3A – FINANCIAL ACCOUNT FOR YEAR ENDING 31.12.14.
INCOME
Subscriptions 2015
Subscriptions 2014
Gift Aid
Donations
Hall Hire
Group Visits
Diaries
Miscellaneous
£
EXPENDITURE
Office Expenses (inc. travel)
Speakers
Publicity/Website
Newsletter
Capitation Fee to Third Age
Trust
Third Age Matters
Hall Hire
Group Visits
Diaries
Miscellaneous (inc. licences)
0.00
3,928.00
0.00
140.08
853.10
6,731.50
36.00
31.00
-----------£11,719.68
Capital Items
Projector
Amplifiers
Screen
Totals
BALANCE SHEET
Balance b/f 01/01/14
Minus bank account
deficit
Petty Cash excess
Balance c/f 31/12/14
Assets
Capital
Capital Items
Total Assets
Book
Value
2013
£56.36
£25.10
£15.69
----------£97.15
415.75
1,650.39
6,925.65
110.00
257.84
---------£11,800.91
Deficit expenditure over
income
DEPRECIATION
ACCOUNT
£
744.92
190.00
40.86
527.50
938.00
Write
Down
25%
-£81.23
Book
Value
2014
£14.09
£6.28
£3.92
---------£24.29
£42.27
£18.83
£11.77
---------£72.86
Made Up By
Bank Account
Petty Cash
£7.021.13
-£81.23
0.00
------------£6,939.90
£6,921.75
18.15
------------£6,939.90
£6,939.90
£72.86
-----------£7,012.76
=======
8
NEWS FROM THE GROUPS – PAGE ONE
Art History
Since December we have been working our way through the Kenneth Clark Civilisation
programmes from the late 1960s. It is interesting, not just from the point of view of the
content (which is excellent), but of his presentation style compared with that of current day
presenters. The camera work of slow panning around the scene is much better than the onesecond jumpy views that we get to day. The group has now reached its maximum number
and cannot take on new members.
Neil Houghton
Book Group
“Animal's People” by Indra Sinha was a difficult and emotional read about the disastrous
fire at the factory in Ghopal and the effect on the people. It concentrates on “Animal”, a
deformed young man who hopes to go to America to have his deformities operated on. The
local people do not trust American 'help', having been betrayed too often. When a young
American woman arrives, Animal is torn between her and his own friends. Some of
members of the group were put off the book by its strong language.
“Lila's Feast” by Frances Osbourne (Mrs George Osbourne) is the story of Mrs Osbourne’s
great-grandmother who lived in China during her early years, which included internment by
the Japanese during WW2. Members were not impressed with this book but I personally
enjoy such history stories.
Our present book is “The Remains of the Day”, by Kazuo Ishiguro. I have found it a very
good read and the group will discuss it later this month.
Janet Miller
Criminal Law
The group now has a tentative six members but do contact me (454181) if this subject
appeals to you as numbers do fluctuate. Support and interest will determine how long this
group runs for. It is a fascinating subject – think how many people throw up their hands in
frustration and disbelief when they consider that an inappropriate sentence has been passed!
There is plenty of opportunity for discussion and if ever there is a subject with more than
one or two viewpoints, this surely is it! Never having run a U3A group, I felt some
trepidation at first but so far, it has been fun and informative. I hope it has been for others
in the group.
Kevin Banks
Discussion Group – 1
“Women are from Venus, men are from Mars”. We need a couple of Martians for the No 1
Discussion Group. Our excellent lone male could do with some company! The other
members are all jolly friendly Venusians who would be very pleased to meet and discuss
with you. How about it guys?
Marianne Shelley
Discussion Group – 2
This group continues to meet on the second Friday of each month at 10.00am to 11.45am
with a break for coffee. The next topic is decided at the current meeting. New members
please phone for further information.
Margaret Oliver
9
MESSAGE FROM VAL HODGE – GROUP LIAISON
We are delighted to announce the successful launch of our three new groups - Poetry
Writing, Criminal Law, and Introduction to the Guitar. Details of these can be found
under Group News.
Spring is in the air and has brought a flurry of new activities to the fore. We have two brand
new groups looking for members. They are:
Map Reading/Navigation
New member, Phil Allen, is keen to set up and run a new group. (This will be good news
for members of the previous and extremely popular Map Reading pop-up group.) Phil will
be planning table-top exercises as well as venturing out into the countryside. He is even
willing to organise weekends away. If you are keen to learn more, contact Phil on 453009.
Jazz Appreciation
Another new member, Mike Baker, is a jazz enthusiast and is looking forward to sharing
his pleasure with like-minded members. He set up a similar group with the U3A in
Petersfield some years ago and is looking forward to meeting local buffs here in the
Blandford and District area.. Feet tapping? Contact Mike on 269505.
It is noticeable how many new members are coming forward to set up new groups. This
doesn’t mean that “old” members can sit back on their laurels! (Ed)
Suggested groups:
Are you looking for something new to expand your artistic talents or new activities to get
you out of the armchair? Perhaps one, or more, of these newly suggested groups may just
hit the spot? If so, contact Val on 456498.
Archaeology
Calligraphy
Bird Watching
Classic cars
Travel
Folk dancing
Skittles
Drawing and painting
Picture framing
History of the Cinema
Easy keep fit
Make 2015 a year for trying something new – every journey starts with a single step!
Val Hodge
10
LIST OF GROUPS
SUBJECT
CONTACT
CONTACT
TEL 01258
860905
857260
454986
450544
860905
453424
860191
489755
459319
455569
488762
455113
450191
489989
451557
455113
861149
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Ancient Rome: History, Culture & Daily Life
Art History
Book Group
Bridge & Scrabble 2
British Mythology
Craft (knitting, crochet, embroidery, tapestry etc)
Cryptic Crosswords
Discussion
Discussion 2 – NEW
French
French 2 – NEW
Garden Visits (April to September only)
German
Genealogy
History Group - local visits and informal talks
History Research (October to March only)
Italian
Latin Beginners 1 – FULL
Auguste Shepherd
Neil Houghton
Janet Miller
Jean Palmer
David Shepherd
Marie Harris
Thelma Wood
Marianne Shelley
Margaret Oliver
Linda Bett
Richard Pearson
Christine Smith
James Dunn
Judy Hodges
Pat Ashworth
Christine Smith
Angela Warsany
Isabel Weiner
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
Latin Beginners 2 – NEW
Latin Intermediate
Lunch Club
Mah Jong
Music Appreciation
Philosophy
Poetry: Reading & Listening
Poetry Writing – NEW
Reading for Pleasure
Recorder Ensemble
Russian - FULL
Scrabble – see also Bridge & Scrabble 2 above
Singing for Fun
Strollers
Claire Smith
Gill Jackson
John Draper
Lynn Hawkey
Heather Rowland
Val Downes
Val Hodge
Theresa Watson
Barbara Curtis
Auguste Shepherd
Chris Poole
Shirley Lister
Rachel Cook
John Draper
454182
453376
455356
455678
454641
880548
456498
450578
456367
860905
454364
454748
452641
455356
33
Theatre Goers **
34
35
36
37
38
Virtual Computer Group **
Walking Group A – see also Strollers above
Walking Group B
Welsh
Writing for Pleasure
Thelma Wood &
Jean Durrant
David Shepherd
John Draper
Stuart McAinsh
Margaret Flood
Thelma Wood
860191
860565
860905
455356
459394
880334
860191
01747
229086
** These groups do not meet on set days and therefore have not been included on the timetable.
Ring contact number for date of next meeting/more information.
MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES – GILL JACKSON – 01258.453376
11
GROUPS TIMETABLE
TIMETABLE
First Monday
10:30 Singing for Fun ***
10:30 Cryptic Crosswords
14:30 Reading for Pleasure
Second Monday
10:30 Cryptic Crosswords
14:00 Ancient Rome:
History, Culture and Daily
Life
Third Monday
10:30 Cryptic Crosswords
Fourth Monday
10:30 Cryptic Crosswords
First Tuesday
First Wednesday
10:00 Committee Meeting
10:00 French 1
14:15 Latin Beginners 2 NEW
Second Tuesday
Second Wednesday
11:00 Coffee Morning: phone
Pat Ashworth for venue
12:30 Lunch Club
14:00 Craft
Third Tuesday
10:00 Philosophy
Fourth Tuesday
11:00 Coffee at The Crown
14:00 Craft
12
10:00 Walking B
14:00 Latin Beginners 1
FULL
Third Wednesday
10:00 French 1
14:00 Genealogy
14:15 Latin Beginners 2 NEW
14:30 Discussion 1
Fourth Wednesday
10:00 Walking A
14:00 British Mythology
14:00 Latin Beginners 1
FULL
GROUPS TIMETABLE
First Thursday
10:30 Russian
11:00 Recorder Ensemble
14:00 Mah Jong
Second Thursday
09:30 Italian
10:30 History Research **
10:30 Russian
14:00 Book Group
14:00 Scrabble
14:00 Latin Intermediate
14:30 Welsh
Third Thursday
10:30 Garden Visits ‡
10:30 Russian
11:00 Recorder Ensemble
14:00 Mah Jong
Fourth Thursday
09:30 Italian
10:00 Poetry
10:30 Russian
14:00 Scrabble
14:00 Latin Intermediate
14:30 Welsh
First Friday
10:00 Writing for Pleasure
10:00 Music Appreciation
10:00 French 2 – NEW
10:00 German Intermediate
14:00 Bridge & Scrabble 2
Second Friday
10:00 German Intermediate
10:00 Discussion 2 - NEW
14:00 Art Appreciation
Third Friday
10:00 German Intermediate
10:00 Writing for Pleasure
10:00 French 2 - NEW
14:00 Bridge & Scrabble 2
* History
Fourth Friday
10:00 Strollers
10:00 German Intermediate
13
* Usual day for most (but not all)
History outings and coffee mornings
** October to March
*** Every two weeks, check with
Group Leader for dates
‡ April to September
Contact Us
Honorary
President
Don Herring
Officers
Chairman
Vice-Chairman
Hon Treasurer
Hon Secretary
Christine Smith
John Rees
Christine Smith
Thelma Wood
O1258
O1258
O1258
O1258
455113
451673
455113
860191
Membership Secretary
Gillian Jackson
O1258 453376
Committee Members
Jocelyn Jenkins
Val Hodge
Bridget Spiers
Mick Murty
O1929
O1258
O1258
O1747
471293
456498
455081
811679
Pam Rees
O1258 451673
Social Secretary
Group Liaison
Speaker Co-ordinator
Web Site Manager David Shepherd
O1258 860905
Newsletter Editor Thelma Wood
O1258 860191
Redwall Cottage. Lower St, Okeford Fitzpaine, DT11 0RN
Email: thelma.wood@tiscali.co.uk
www.blandfordu3a.co.uk
Charity No 1092984
14
COFFEE DRINKING IN VIENNA
“Vienna, City of My Dreams” so the song goes; was he dreaming of coffee and cakes, I
wonder, for they are everywhere.
On a recent short visit, we tried several, all very different. Our guide had mentioned one in
particular where, in days long gone, sugar-bakers had plied their trade to the Emperors.
“One breath in there” he had said “and you immediately take in 500 calories!” Plenty of
people were willing to try. Having fought our way through the ground floor shop, we had
to queue at the top of the stairs to get a table. Coffee in Vienna is served on a small silver
tray with a glass of water, but one needs a diploma in how to choose coffee as the choice is
bewildering. Luckily, we had been primed on what to ask for. It is de rigeur to have cake,
so we did, but when we waved away the dish of whipped cream that accompanied the cream
cake, the waitress looked somewhat put out. All this turned out, not surprisingly really, to
be a very expensive way of spending half an hour.
In complete contrast to this and desperate to get out of the cold, we found ourselves in a
small café, where we tried, but failed, not to mind the lack of a “No Smoking” sign. We
didn’t stay long, but were intrigued by a man at the next table who looked, in his top hat and
greatcoat and whiskers, like something out of Dickens. Then we realised that he had been
driving one of the “Fiakers” (an open horse-drawn carriage) for which trade was a bit slow
in the cold wind.
On our last day, we took our morning coffee in yet another establishment, all quiet and
serene, with a charming waitress and, of course, a magnificent display of beautifully
prepared cakes. One of us partook of an apfel streusel and then, feeling relaxed and happy,
we took out a mortgage and bought an expensive but really delicious stollen to eat at
Christmas as a reminder of this elegant City.
Gill Jackson
COFFEE DRINKING IN BLANDFORD
For the next six months, both monthly coffee mornings are now taking place at the Crown
Hotel. This is because part of The Brewery is about to undergo a refurbishment and I have
been told that it is expected to last until the end of September. I will let you know when we
are able to return.
Pat Ashworth
I bet they wouldn’t put up with this in Vienna! Ed.
“If this is tea, bring me coffee; if this is coffee, bring me tea.” (Benjamin Franklin)
15
NEWS FROM THE GROUPS – PAGE TWO
History
The Group finished the old year and began the new with coffee mornings and two very
interesting talks.
In November, we were very fortunate to have Lilian Ladle (who has a considerable
reputation as a local archaeologist) to give us a fascinating talk on the Early History of
Wareham, describing the growing importance of an area where there was evidence of great
activity including flint work and the making of pottery before and throughout the bronze
age (particularly at the Bestwall site where Lilian herself has done much excavation)
Although there is also evidence of a small roman settlement, it was the Saxons who founded
the existing town, the oldest features being the massive town walls probably built by Alfred
the Great in the 9th Century to defend the town from the Danes. Amazingly by the end of
the Saxon period, Wareham was one of the most important towns in the whole of the
country, only declining as Poole developed and as the silting up of the river affected trade.
Lilian’s informative presentation and enthusiasm brought all of this to life and the talk was
thoroughly enjoyed.
In January, “History Beneath Our Feet – Finds Retrieved from the Dorset Plough Soil” was
the subject of a talk given by John Early. John brought with him a large selection of silver
coins and small artefacts (e.g. a clothes/hair pin/spear head) discovered by him over a period
of many years as a member of one of the legitimate groups who enjoy this particular hobby.
As John talked about his finds, he trusted us sufficiently to pass them round, handle and
inspect them. This was very special and much appreciated.
We were fascinated to learn that under the Treasure Act, a hoard is defined as two or more
silver coins which have to be declared as treasure. Also, under English law, a landlord has
sole title to any archaeological artefacts found on his/her property and legitimate metal
detectionists come to an agreement with the owner as to how any resulting proceeds are
shared, etc.
The hope of an important find is always there! Unfortunately, said John, it wasn‘t him but
his companion on a recent expedition who had the luck to unearth part of a gold lunula – (a
circular necklace) which is currently being studied by the British Museum. Eventually this
will be on display in Dorchester Museum. Perhaps the other part still lies in the ploughed
soil, awaiting discovery?
SORRY – The group really is full for the moment, and with a waiting list.
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Pat Ashworth
WORD FOR WORD
An anagram, as you all know, is a word or phrase made by rearranging the letters
of another word or phrase. The following are exceptionally clever. Someone out
there either has way too much time to waste or is deadly at Scrabble.
Dormitory
Dirty room
Desperation
A rope ends it
The Morse Code
Here come dots
Slot Machines
Cash lost in 'em
Animosity
Is no amity
Mother-in-law
Woman Hitler
Snooze Alarms
Alas! No more Z's
Alec Guinness
Genuine Class
Semolina
Is no meal
The Public Art Galleries
Large picture halls, I bet
A Decimal Point
I'm a dot in place
The Earthquakes
That queer shake
Eleven plus two
Twelve plus one
Contradiction
Accord not in it
Astronomer
Moon Starer
Princess Diana
End is a car spin
Year Two Thousand
A year to shut down
(Woops!)
From John Rees
HE’S NOT WRONG!
Small boy waiting in bed for his mother to come and say good-night, sees the book she has
in her hand and says:
“What did you bring this book to read to me out of up here for?! Prepositions? No
worries! Ed.
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NEWS FROM THE GROUPS – PAGE THREE
Poetry Reading
Our group continues to thrive, enjoying works from all walks and eras. Although we meet
purely to enjoy and share poetry, we are gradually learning more about the lives of
established poets, and are being introduced to others previously unknown to us. Our two
hours whiz by!
I have two names on a waiting list and am hoping a new group will be set up. To make this
happen, please call me on 456498 if you fancy enjoying poetry in the company of other likeminded people. Don’t be shy!
Val Hodge
Poetry Writing
During the second meeting of this NEW group, poetry was read and discussed and “spidergraphs” were completed to capture memories, thoughts, half-formed sentences, single
words, headings, sub-headings and themes – for that special poem (yet to be written!) A
brief was set for a suggested poem but with no pressure to write immediately.
Individuality is encouraged when you are ready to take that first step – first word – first
sentence. Probable trees, sunsets and beaches were discussed today and, as thoughts flowed,
words filled the paper with colours, heights and temperatures.
A relaxing two hours – and tea too! If you are feeling creative, phone me on 450578.
Theresa Watson
The Aisles of Waitrose
A small and very weary-looking little boy, trudging behind his self-absorbed mother, was
heard to ask “What exactly have we come in here for?” Is he an embryonic male Christmas
shopper?! Ed.
WALKING BOOTS AT THE READY!
Selworthy Strollers
The eight of us who are going on a short break to Exmoor at the end of March have been
getting ourselves in trim by meeting periodically for a local walk followed by lunch – well,
we have to have a reason to walk! (Are they really serious about all of this?!! Ed) The aim
is to improve our fitness and to ensure that everyone knows one another by the time we set
off on holiday and, of course, to enjoy ourselves in the meantime!
Lynn Hawkey
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NEWS FROM THE GROUPS – PAGE FOUR
Cryptic Crosswords
We are going strong and have another couple of new members. If we have any further
applicants, it will be a case of setting up a second group as any more than we have at the
moment would be impracticable. Although a lot of concentration goes on at our meetings,
we have fun as well –so don’t feel sorry for us! If you’d like a clue to crack, try: “Mum,
listen for a change” (6) This is an anagram clue. Answer on page 22.
Thelma Wood
Introduction to the Guitar
We set off initially as a pop-up group for six months, with five beginners all keen to learn,
play and have a good time. Practising at home is the key to learning an instrument but we
meet every two weeks and hope to make good progress. I had a splendid response to the
mention in the last Newsletter and the group is now full. Although I play guitar, this is my
first attempt at teaching so we are all learning as we go along!
Paul Hooke
Reading for Pleasure
Meetings continue to be well attended and, with 12 members, the group is currently full.
In January we decided to take a slightly different approach to choosing a book and opted
instead to choose an author rather than a specific book. Our choice was for any book by
Geraldine Brooks and between us we read:
“March” - a novel that retells Louisa May Alcott's “Little Women” from the viewpoint of
Mr March, the absent father.
“Year of Wonders” - A novel of the Eyam Plague
“People of the Book”- The story focuses on imagined events surrounding the Sarajevo
Haggadah, which is one of the oldest surviving Jewish illuminated texts.
“Caleb's Crossing” - Set in 1665, a young man from Martha's Vineyard became the first
Native American to graduate from Harvard College.
February’s choice of author is the Nigerian novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
Barbara Curtis
A VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE
No wonder politicians are so useless:
They start off running for candidacy,
Then they stand for election,
Then they sit in the House
And finish up lying through their teeth.
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John Rees
NEWS FROM THE GROUPS – PAGE FIVE
Scrabble I
This group is still in existence but is no longer recruiting new members. Those wishing to
join a Scrabble Group are invited to phone Jean Palmer on 450544 who will be happy to
welcome you to join Scrabble 2.
Scrabble 1 ended 2014 with a very enjoyable Christmas lunch, arranged this year by Linda
Sells, a member of the group, who kindly volunteered to do this on our behalf. Many thanks,
Linda, from us all.
Shirley Lister
Un-scramble
An Argos user reviewing their purchase on line:
“grate stuff very helpful if there not in would ask myself how im communicating with them
as you will get back the same as you have communicated.” I think I know what they mean!
Ed
Theatre Group
We had an excellent season, ending with a musical celebration of going on holiday, “Come
Fly with Me”, performed by a very gifted quartet of singers, dancers and instrumentalists,
in the Salberg Studio.
So far in the new season, we have seen “Three Men in a Boat” (J.K.Jerome) and “84 Charing
Cross Road”, a brilliant production based on the book by Helene Hanff. This play was first
produced at Salisbury Playhouse in 1981.
To look forward to, we have: “All My Sons” (Arthur Miller); “Little Shop of Horrors”
(musical); “Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsense” (adapted from the works of
P.G.Wodehouse); “Romeo and Juliet”; and “Mrs Warren’s Profession” (Bernard Shaw). In
addition to our usual Thursday outings, there is an opportunity to go to a Saturday matineé
of “Evita”.
There is no limit to the number of members the Theatre Group can have so please do get in
touch if you would like to join us for any of the last five mentioned productions above. (“All
My Sons” is already booked).
Thelma Wood
_____________________________________
Quote from The Times – the obituary of Tommie Manderson, a make-up artist who died in
January, age 102, included an entry taken from his diary which read: “You don’t stop doing
things because you are getting old. You get old because you stop doing things.”
Sent in by Val Downes
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NEWS FROM THE GROUPS – PAGE SIX
Walking Group A
I have not had to cancel a Group A walk this year in spite of the very cold weather. I hoped,
on some very cold days, that no one would turn up, but no luck! There were always some
brave members who were willing to face the elements. The walk around the Tarrant Rawston
Airfield was an example when we had to lie into the wind to get around, albeit I cut the walk
short.
I am looking forward to the Spring and the arrival of warmer days and green foliage on the
trees. Unfortunately, wild life is very difficult to find and in some areas birds have just
vanished. With global warming, one would have thought that wildlife would have increased.
Strollers’ Walks
The Strollers’ walks, like the Group A walks, have taken place throughout the winter and
have been better attended than I thought they would be. I hope that members enjoyed getting
out during the winter months ?.
I would like to get more members strolling as I am sure older members would benefit from
walking and visiting places of interest. These walks are up to three miles long and are walked
at a slow pace. Strollers can always stop and stare if they need a break.
Programmes are available for the Group A and Strollers’Walks. Contact John on
455356. Email: johnd26(at)talktalk.net
Lunch Club
The Lunch Club is still very popular and we have had the best attendance ever, which is
great!. Unfortunately, the venue does not allow us to seat any more.
Boxing Day Madness.
I was on The Isle of Wight for Xmas and the New Year and my daughter, son-in-law and
I walked to Ventnor to see the sea bathers go into the sea for their Boxing Day Charity
Swim. About thirty went in and came out again, very quickly!. It was bad enough wrapped
up like Eskimos watching, leave alone stripping off and then rushing into freezing water. I
hope the Charity appreciated their efforts and the 10 pence that I put in the collection!
John Draper
A Teaser
Harry, where William had had had had had had had had had had had the desired effect.
What’s all this about then? It’s perfectly logical. See Page 23.
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NEWS FROM THE GROUPS – PAGE SEVEN
Welsh
Despite some unavoidable absences, the Welsh group has continued to meet and enjoyed
making progress in learning the language. We have recently been looking at examination
papers set for students of Welsh as a Second Language and have been very pleased that we
could make some attempt at answering the questions. This is not to say that we would have
passed with flying colours but we feel that we would have been able to make an attempt at
a pass mark. It isn’t easy to practise our spoken Welsh in Dorset so to help us with
pronunciations we have been looking at tongue twisters, in Welsh of course.
Try this: Lladdodd Llewellyn llawer llew llwyd.
(Llewellyn killed several grey lions )
Get this right and you will never have trouble with “ll” or “dd” in place names again!
Margaret Flood
Are Welsh lions always grey?! Ed
Writing for Pleasure
Sometimes, when we’re chewing the ends of our pencils, racking our brains and tearing our
hair out, there’s no time to do any writing – so we go home! Not really! But we make no
secret of the fact that it doesn’t always come flowing like nectar and can sometimes be very
challenging. But somehow, there are always stories to read, dialogue to act and poems to
laugh or cry over. We do really enjoy ourselves – or we wouldn’t still be together after
nearly ten years!
Thelma Wood
Garden Visits – finally, a look towards Summer
By the time this newsletter hits everyone’s doormats, the programme for this summer’s
Garden Visits will have been forwarded to those who are already on my list. We will be
visiting a different garden each month from April to September, mostly on the third
Thursday of the month: RHS Garden Wisley by mini-bus in April and then Edmondsham
House near Wimborne; Anderson Manor near Winterborne Kingston; Kingston Lacey; by
mini-bus to Forbe Abbey; and finally in September a visit to Stourhead in Wiltshire.
If you would like a copy of the programme with booking details please email me at
christineiredale53(at)btinternet.com or phone me on 455113 and I will add you to the group
list. Here’s looking forward to a great summer!
Christine Smith
Crossword Solution: SILENT
22
NO MORE GROUP NEWS SO I’LL FINISH WITH A FEW
“FUNNIES” THAT HAVE BEEN SENT TO ME BY MEMBERS.
Celibacy can be a choice of life or a condition imposed by circumstances.
While attending a “Harmony for Couples” weekend, Dave and his partner Ann, listened to
the Instructor declare “It is essential that husbands and wives know the things that are
important to each other”.
He then addressed the men: “Can you name and describe your wife’s favourite flower?”
Dave leaned over, touched Ann’s arm gently, and whispered, “It’s Homepride, isn’t it?”
Thus began Dave’s life of celibacy.
Anon.
As it's no longer politically correct to direct a joke at any racial or ethnic minority, try this
one:
An Englishman, a Scotsman, an Irishman, a Welshman, a Ghurkha, a Latvian, a Turk, an
Aussie, a German, a Yank, an Egyptian, a Jap, a Pakistani, a Mexican, a Spaniard, a Russian,
a Pole, a Lithuanian, a Jordanian, an Armenian, a Kiwi, a Swede, a Finn, a Canadian, an
Israeli, a Romanian, a Bulgarian, a Serb, a Swiss, a Greek, a Singaporean, an Italian, a
Norwegian, an Argentinian, a Libyan, a Muslim, a Hindu, a Buddhist and an African went
to a night club.
…………… Wait for it!
The bouncer said, "Sorry, I can't let you in without a Thai.
Sent in by Jocelyn Jenkins
An Irishman is sitting in a pub having a drink when his mobile phone rings. He takes it out
of his pocket, puts it to his ear and says, “Oh, it’s you Paddy. How did you know I was
here?”
In the local nick they are holding an identity parade after a young girl reported being raped.
About ten men are lined up, including our friend Paddy, waiting for her to be brought in.
Eventually the door opens and a lady police officer comes in with a young girl. As soon as
Paddy sees her, he jumps forward excitedly, points at the girl and shouts, “That’s her. That’s
her. I’d know her anywhere”
TEASER: Harry, while William had had “had”, had had “had had”.
“Had had” had had the desired effect.
23
Vive la différence!
MONEY
A man will pay £2 for a £1 item he wants. A woman will pay £1 for a £2 item that she doesn’t
want.
ARGUMENTS
A woman has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after that is the beginning
of a new argument.
CATS
Women love cats. Men say they love cats, but when the women aren’t looking, men kick cats.
FUTURE
A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband. A man never worries about the
future until he gets a wife.
SUCCESS
A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend. A successful woman
is one who can find such a man.
MARRIAGE
A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn’t. A man marries a woman
expecting that she won’t change and she does.
DRESSING UP
A woman will dress up to go shopping, water the plants, empty the garbage, answer the phone,
read a book and iron a skirt. A man will dress up for weddings and funerals.
OFFSPRING
A woman knows all about her children. She knows about their dentist appointments and
romances, best friends, favourite food, fears and hopes and dreams. A man is vaguely aware
of some short people living in the house.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Any married man should forget about his mistakes.
remembering the same thing.
There’s no point in two people
Sent in by John Rees
And finally …..
He who laughs last, thinks slowest…. Change is inevitable, except from vending machines…
When everything’s coming your way, you’re in the wrong lane…. What happens if you get
scared half to death, twice? Inside every older person is a younger person wondering, “What
the heck happened?”
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