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Mansfield and District U3A
     Newsletter




          Quiz Night report: Page 4
        _____________________________

                 Established 1999
       HMRC Charity Registration No.: XT30525


            March 2013
         Website: www.mansfield-u3a.org.uk
   Noticeboard: http://mansfieldu3a.blogspot.com



                     Page 1 of 12
Welcome from your chairman
I’M SITTING in the sunshine at the beginning of March writing this ‘letter’ – admittedly behind glass
as it’s still freezing outside, but at least I can see the early signs of Spring. How much we depend on
these early signs – the bulbs, birds bickering, a different ‘taste’ in the air – to keep our spirits up
during the last few weeks of winter.
Another sign of a new year is the increasing activity in U3A. The New Members’ meeting was a
success (thanks to Avril McGee, our Membership Secretary). I hope that I will meet even more of
the new members as time goes on. We would like you to fill-in the questionnaire just so that we
know if we, the committee, are doing things right. (Or otherwise!) These forms will be available at
the next meeting.
Thanks also to Pauline and Ian Boucher for the annual Quiz Night. The time they spend on devising
the questions, recording the music, printing the papers and setting up the equipment is beyond
belief, and we can only thank them. And we add thanks to the Social Committee under Jean Hinds,
all of whom worked hard to provide the buffet for over 100 people. They found willing donors of
raffle prizes too, and ladies to sell tickets.
Volunteers all. And more volunteers are what we need.
Last September, three new Committee Members were elected, and their new enthusiasm and drive
has pushed our U3A forward. Bob Longden and Jennie Roberts work hard behind the scenes;
Linda Leivers works in full light developing new groups. We all benefit.
As we do when new groups are tutored and coordinated by new or recently joined members and
other new members have come forward with ideas for groups and for speakers. It all shows a U3A
that is alive and thriving.
I would like to think that there will be more volunteers to join the committee in September and to
help with new or old groups. We can only build for the future if we are driven forward by the
members who will take over our roles.
There is another group of volunteers I would like to recruit. Next year is the 15th anniversary of the
foundation of Mansfield U3A. We have been offered the opportunity to fill a gallery at the Museum
with a display of the work that our U3A does.
But it needs organising – perhaps an anniversary lunch, perhaps inviting other U3As to join us. Can
I ask people interested in the idea to meet me after today’s meeting, or to phone me if they are
unable to attend. I think the time has come for us to show Mansfield what we are.
Mike Allen
______________________________________________________________________________
In this issue
   Page 2             Chairman's Welcome.
   Page 3             Gift Aid. Coffee Morning. Holiday updates.
   Page 4             Book Table. Recent Events: Quiz Night.
   Pages 5 - 8        Groups Meeting Programme.
   Page 9             Recent Events: New members' Coffee Morning. New Groups (Heartstart,
                      Art, Caravan & Motorhome Rally, Board Games, Yoga & Keep Fit)
   Page 10            Groups News: Art; Bowls; Garden Visits; Digital World.
   Page 11            Groups News: Theatre Visits; Gardening; Luncheon Club; Art Appreciation;
                      Popular Music Appreciation.
   Page 12            Speaker's Corner. Dates for your diary. Notices.

                                              Page 2 of 12
Gift Aid Scheme
THANK YOU to all members who have signed-up for the Gift Aid scheme. Forms will again be
available at the March meeting for those who have not yet had the opportunity to sign.
Mansfield U3A are now registered with the Inland Revenue for the Gift Aid Scheme.
This means that if you pay tax to the U.K. Government we can reclaim the tax you paid on your
subscription to Mansfield U3A.
In order to reclaim this money we have to keep records to satisfy the Inland Revenue. We have a
simple Gift Aid declaration that needs to be signed by you and returned to me or any Committee
member. This will need doing only once and we can then reclaim tax on your subscriptions for the
past 4 years and on all future subscriptions.
We would encourage everyone who pays tax to sign up for the scheme as it will cost you nothing
and will give us an additional source of income for our U3A.
If you have any questions please contact me or any Committee member.
Pauline Boucher, Treasurer (01623 644798; paulineboucher15@yahoo.co.uk)
Coffee Morning
JUST A few words about this annual event:
    •     Most important of all is the change of date – 10th MAY.
    •     It is upstairs at the Towers from 10am - 12noon and the tickets are £2, which includes a
          cup of coffee.
    •     This is our main fund-raising event of the year and we all have a good time.
    •     Whilst having a cuppa and chat with friends you can also visit the many stalls, which will
          include tombola, raffle, a fun game, cake and plant stalls.
    •     DONATIONS for the tombola and raffle are needed and can be given to any Social
          Committee member. On the day, bring any plants and cakes that can also be sold.
REMEMBER: ALL the proceeds go into funds and help keep our low subscriptions. Tickets will be
on sale at the March meeting.
Karen Troop.
Holiday Updates
Around Britain Cruise – 24th May - 3rd June
By the time you read this all balance payment receipts will have arrived and hopefully our personal
cruise books with shore tour information. Since these will be sent to the lead passenger only, I have
been advised to ask for additional copies to be sent to those sharing a cabin, apart from the
married couples. Let me know if you have not received this information. The electronic tickets will be
sent by the end of April so I hope you can all come to a meeting on Saturday morning 4th May at
11am - 12noon at the Junction pub in Sutton in Ashfield (was the Cardinal). You may like to stay for
a meal afterwards.
Tenby – 1st - 5th July
The March meeting is the deadline for your balances for this holiday. £268 (sharing) £280 (single
room). Cheques to be paid to Mansfield & District U3A.
Thursford Christmas Spectacular – 4th, 5th & 6th December
April is the deadline for £10 deposits. Add on £10 if you choose the company's insurance. Cheques
payable to Mansfield & District U3A. Seventeen people have already chosen their seats so if you
are particular as to where you would like to sit then see me ASAP.
Margaret Burlinson                                         Details of all holidays are on the website ...

                                               Page 3 of 12
Book Table
YOU MAY remember January was a relative disaster and we only raised £25.40.
February was rather better and we raised £51.26. Just in case anyone wonders why we had
an odd amount of change, one person (at least) opened her purse and deposited lots of
change in the cash box (they had already paid for the books they had purchased). So this
February we received £2 more than last year.
Carry on.
Lilian Whitehead.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

Recent Events
Quiz Night
THE QUIZ Night on Saturday 23rd February at Queen Elizabeth Academy was a huge success.
106 U3A members packed into the hall, found their tables, unpacked their drinks, read the
information and question sheets on their tables, took a deep breath and settled in for a night of fun.
For some it was a mere dip into the fount of
knowledge just beneath the surface of their
memories; for the rest of us it required deep
thought, earnest discussion and tortured
mind-wrestling.
Question topics ranged from general
knowledge to music, singers, animals,
mothers of famous people, and many more.
It was interesting to see how many
members struggled with the spelling of
'haemorrhoid's', for which some teams
could find at least 12 versions.
Comfort came in the delicious platters of
food prepared by the expert hands of the
ladies of the Social Committee (Jean Hinds,
Jackie Ling, Karen Troop, Marilyn Stubbs
and Janet Whitlam). Then it was back to
more questions and playful banter. Judging
by the happy faces everyone thoroughly
enjoyed themselves.
The winning team was from Sherwood
U3A, well-named the 'FRAUD SQUAD',
who all won a fiver.
The raffle, run by Elizabeth Ellis and Sheila Townsend, raised £140.00 that will be donated to 'Help
for Heroes'.
On behalf of all those attending, the Chairman thanked Pauline and Ian Boucher for setting the
questions and asking them and for organising and operating the technology, the ladies of the Social
Committee for all their hard work preparing platters of delicious eats, running the raffle (and
everyone who donated prizes). They all combined to give us such an enjoyable evening that made
a profit of £295 after all expenses; a welcome contribution to Mansfield U3A funds.
Jennie Roberts                                                 There are more photos on the website ...

                                                Page 4 of 12
Key to Meetings details:
THIS TABLE SHOWS THE DAY of the month, time and frequency using the first two letters of the
day, followed by numbers 1 - 5 to represent the week number. The final letter M (or F, W or V)
indicates that the group meets monthly, fortnightly, weekly or at variable intervals.
So 'Tu2, 2.30 - V M' would mean a group meeting on the 2nd Tuesday at 2.30pm Monthly but with
Variable finish times.
The main Mansfield and District U3A meetings are on the 3rd Tuesday of each month (except August
and December) at the Oakham Suite, 155 Nottingham Road, Mansfield from 10 am - 12.30 pm.

Interest Group           Meetings                  Meeting Places           Leader/Contact
Art (New)                We3, 10 -12 M             Big Barn Lane            Linda Spray
                                                   Methodist Church,        01623 795176
                                                   Mansfield
Inaugural Meeting: March 20th; then: April 17th; May 15th
Art Appreciation         Mo1, 2.00 - 4.00 M        Baptist Church,          Pauline Boucher
                                                   Rosemary St.             01623 644798
                                                   Mansfield
Next Meeting: 29th April – Tea & talk at Thoresby
Next Visit: Wed. 29th May – Walker Art Gallery Liverpool
Beginners' Bridge        Mo, Various               Enviro Centre,           Maxine Rose/Glenis
(With Ashfield U3A)      6.30 - 9.00               Derby Rd College,        Carr
                                                   Mansfield                01623 459081/627735
Next Meetings: 18th March; 8th & 22nd April; 13th May
(Also Acol sessions at the Mechanics Institute – Th, 10 - 12.30 W)
Board Games (New) Mo F, 6.30                       The Rushley Inn,         Linda Leivers
                                                   Nottingham Road,         01623 471963
                                                   Mansfield
Next Meetings: 18th March, 1st & 15th April
Bowls                    Th, 1.30 - 3.30 W         Lammas                   Don Wright
                                                   Centre/Mansfield         01623 628946
                                                   Bowls Club
Next Meetings: March 14th (End of Season at Lammas); 22nd March (11.00am) pre-season
meeting at Bowls Club Pavilion; 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th May & 6th June with coaching
Caravan & M'home         TBA                       Various                  Terry Lammas
Rally (New)                                                                 01623 471963
Inaugural Meeting: Fri. 31st May to 2nd June – Skellingthorpe, nr Doddington Hall, Lincolnshire
Chat and Stitch          Mo3, 2.00 - 4.00 M        St John's Centre,        Doreen Storer
                                                   Mansfield                01623 407731
Next Meetings: 18th March; 15th April

All members are invited to contact the relevant Group Leader if they would like to participate in any
               interest group or attend an event. NB: * indicates a waiting list.

                                             Page 5 of 12
Interest Group             Meetings                    Meeting Place          Leader/Contact
Current Affairs            Tu2, 2.00 - 4.00 M          St John's Centre,      Norma Shillinglaw
                                                       St John's Street,      01623 466934
                                                       Mansfield
Next Meetings: March 12th; April 9th
Digital World              Fri 2 & 4, 2.00 - 4.00      Stanton Hill Baptist   David Ling
                           2/M                         Church, Albert St..    01623 822994
                                                       Skegby
Next Meetings: 22nd March – Art of Seeing Pt2 & PhotoShop Clone Stamp Tool Pt 2
Family History             Tu4, 10.00 - 12.00 M        St John's Centre,      Max Clarke
                                                       Mansfield              01623 621744
Next Meeting: TBA
Film Studies *             We1, 1.30 - V M             Joy's home             Joy Crowe
                                                                              01623 645400
Next Meetings: 1st April
Garden Visits              During the Summer           Various                Marion Thornton
                                                                              01623 651528
Next Visits: 17th May – Burton Agnes Hall; 19th July – Trentham Gardens and Wollerton Old Hall
Gardening                  Tu1, 10.00 - 12.00 M        St Peter's Centre,     Avril McGee
                                                       Mansfield              01623 452688
Next Meetings: 2nd April – Chris Cox: Clematis; 7th May –Janette Merilion: Birds, Butterflies & Bees
Heartstart (New)           Th3, 1.00 - 3.00            William Kaye Hall,     Linda Leivers
                                                       Ladybrook Lane         01623 471963
Next Meetings: 18th April; 13th June
Holidays                   Various                     TBA                    Margaret Burlinson
(Home & Abroad)                                                               01623 632538
Next holidays: 24th May - 3rd June – Around Britain Cruise; 1st - 5th July – Tenby; 4th, 5th & 6th
December – Thursford Christmas Spectacular
Keep Fit (New)             TBA                         TBA                    Linda Leivers
                                                                              01623 471963
Inaugural Meeting: TBA
Local History              Fri1, 10.00 - 12.00 M       The Rushley Inn,       Bob & Sue Longden
                                                       Nottingham Road        01623 486903
Next Meetings: 5th April – Mansfield Brewery with Ian Boucher
Next visit: 5th July – Severn Valley Railway (Joint trip with Sci-Tech)
Luncheon Club              Th after 3rd Tu,            Various                David Ling
                           12.00 - 2.00 M                                     01623 822994
Next Meetings: March 21st – Ania, Sherwood; April 18th – Mansfield Manor

                                                Page 6 of 12
Interest Group           Meetings                    Meeting Place          Leader/Contact

                                          Music Groups

Classical Music 1 *      Th2, 2.00 - 4.00 M          Members' homes         Alan & Marlene
                                                                            Radford
                                                                            01623 427934
Next Meetings: 14th February – Chopin with Peter; 14th March – Donizetti with TBA
Classical Music 2        Mo4, 2.00 - 4.00 M          Members' homes         Peter Hart
                                                                            01623 620940
Next Meetings: 25th February – Borodin & Mussorsky with Sheila; 25th March – Saint Saens &
Fauré with Marie
Concert Visits (New) Various                         Royal Concert Hall,    David Ling
(With Southwell U3A)                                 Nottingham             01623 822994
Inaugural Meeting: TBA
Music 2 *                Mo4, 2.00 - 4.30 M          Members' homes         Eric Prescott
                                                                            01623 631160
Next Meeting: TBA
Popular Music            Tu4, 2.00 - 4.00 M          St John's School,      Peter Haynes
Appreciation *                                       Mansfield              01623 610886
Next Meeting: 26th March at the Carnarvon Arms, Teversal at 1.00pm
Pudding Club *           Tu1, 4.00 - 6.00 M          Members' homes         Sylvia Slack
                                                                            01623 633981
Next Meetings: April 2nd at Janet's; May 7th at Sylvia's
Reading 1 *              Th3, 2.00 - 4.00 M          Peter Dawson's home Peter Dawson
                                                                         01623 882191
Next Meetings: 21st March; 18th April; 16th May
Reading 2                Tu3, 2.00 - 4.00 M          Ravenshead Library     Joan Hufton
                                                                            01623 557488
Next Meetings: 19th March; 16th April; 21st May
Science & Technical      Tu1, 1.30 - 3.30 M          Stanton Hill Baptist   Ian Boucher
                                                     Church, Albert St.     01623 644798
                                                     Skegby
Next Meetings: 2nd April – Sounds and Vibrations with Peter Thurkettle; 7th May – Origins of
Weather Forecasting with Graham Allin
Next visits: 4th June – Pleasley Colliery Museum; 5th July – Severn Valley Railway (Joint trip with
Local History)
Scrabble *               Mo2, 2.00 - 4 .00 M         Brenda Thurkettle's    Brenda Thurkettle
                                                     home                   01623 628136
Next Meetings: 11th March; 8th April; 13th May; 10th May

                                              Page 7 of 12
Interest Group           Meetings                  Meeting Place            Leader/Contact
Singing for Fun          Th V                      West Notts College,      June Fell
                                                   Derby Rd. Mansfield      01623 623547
Next Meetings: March 21st, April TBA
Tai Chi                  Mo, 9.30 - 10.30 W        St John's Centre,        Cliff Laycock
                                                   Mansfield                01623 481985
Next Meetings: March 11th, 18th & 25th; April 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th
Theatre Visits           Various                   Various                  Sheila Whalley
                                                                            01623 453908
Sun. 10th March – Me and My Girl. (Matinee at the Palace Theatre, Mansfield).
Wed. 17th April – Blood Brothers. (Matinee at the Theatre Royal, Nottingham.)
Wed. 15th May – The Mouse Trap. (Evening at the Theatre Royal, Nottingham.)
                                        Walking Groups
Hikers                   Th1 & Mo3, 9.30 - V       Tesco car park, off      Peter Thurkettle
(all-day, 6 - 8 miles)   2/M                       Oak Tree Lane            01623 628136
Next Meetings: Mon. 18 March – Ockbrook & Dale Abbey; Thurs. 4th April – Normanton &
Keyworth; Mon. 15 April – Ilam / Manifold / Wetton
Strollers                We2, 10.30 - V M          Various                  Barbara Massey /
(a leisurely 2 miles)                                                       Marion Thornton
                                                                            01623 628357 /
                                                                            01623 651528
Next Meetings: 13th March – Sherwood Forest; 10th April – Vicar Water; 8th May – Rufford Abbey
Walkers                  We4, 10.30 – V M          Various                  Joy & Nick Crowe
(an easy 4 - 5 miles)                                                       01623 645400
Next Meetings: 27th March – Spa Ponds; 24th April – Sansom Woods and Papplewick
Wine Appreciation        We3, 7.30 - V M           Members' homes           Mike Allen
2*                                                                          01623 653345
Next Meetings: March 20th – Reds, own choice, with RB; April 17th – Macon-Villages with K/NS
Wine Appreciation        Tu4, 7.30 - V M           Members' homes           Graham Allin
3*                                                                          01623 473662
Next Meetings: March 26th – Wide price range reds with Barrie & Lynne; Apr 23 – Port with Jill
Writing for Pleasure * Mo2, 2.00 - 4.00 M          The Stanhope Centre      Sue Ford / Hilary
                                                   (Bridge St. Methodist    Miller 01623
                                                   Church), Mansfield.      844286 / 620067
Next Meetings: 11th March; 8th April; 13th May; 10th June
Yoga                     We, 1.00 - 3.00 W         Bridge Street            Linda Leivers
                                                   Methodist Church,        01623 471963
                                                   Mansfield
Inaugural Meeting: 27th March

                                             Page 8 of 12
New Members' Meeting




A BIG thank you to all those who attended
the new members' coffee morning – new
members, group leaders and committee
members alike. A particular thanks to Jean
Hinds for the refreshments much
appreciated by all.
Avril McGee                                                  There are more photos on the website ...
______________________________________________________________________________
Groups News (Check the Interest Group web pages for updates)
New Groups
THE PAST MONTH has seen us launch a number of new groups and projects:
    •     Heartstart, where there are still training vacancies. See the Notice Boards and website
          for dates and further information.
    •     Art, which commences on the 20th March. Please see below and contact Linda Spray to
          ensure you have a place.
    •     Caravan & Motorhome Rally. The first rally will be on 31st May, 1st & 2nd June at
          Skellingthorpe nr. Lincoln. Please see website or notice Boards for more information.
    •     Board Games had its first meeting on the 4th March, played Yahtzee and learnt Canasta,
          which were greatly enjoyed. The group will now meet bi-weekly starting on 18th March so
          please contact me if you would like to join in the fun.
    •     Yoga was due to commence on the 6th of March but has been delayed to the 27th due to
          our teacher, Sarah Hollis suffering bereavement. There are a few places left on this
          course, please contact me for details.
    •     Keep Fit is still in the planning stages but a large number have expressed an interest and
          we'll be able to launch this group as soon as I can locate a teacher.
Keep your ideas coming in, either to me or via the suggestions box. I don’t think we can do
underwater basket weaving, but we could try.
Linda Leivers, Groups Co-ordinator
Art
THE NEW Art Group starts the day after the March meeting i.e. 20th, 10 - 12 at Big Barn Lane
Methodist Church.
Michael Morton, a U3A member and former illustrator, has agreed to give some tutoring to those of
us who feel there is room for improvement. This group is for 'hands-on' painting or drawing and is
not to be confused with that other excellent interest group Art Appreciation.
Come along and dispel the myth that you have no aptitude. Refreshments will be provided and you
will be given a warm welcome. For the first session just some soft B pencils and a sketch pad are all
that is required.
Linda Spray

                                             Page 9 of 12
Bowls
THE 2012/2013 indoor bowls sessions ended on the 14th March and outdoor bowling will
commence at the Mansfield Bowling Club, Chesterfield Road, Mansfield on Thursday 9th May
1.30pm to 3.30pm and every Thursday through to the closing of the green on 28th September.
The first five Thursdays, qualified coaches, Mike Lake and Mel. Savidge will be in attendance.
Members new to bowling are very welcome to come along and have a go. Bowls will be provided,
but flat-soled shoes must be worn. The cost per session will be £2. Whether you are a Beginner,
Novice, or an experience Player, all will be made very welcome.
There will be a pre-season meeting to meet the coaches and discuss the activities of the Bowls
Group on Friday 22nd March 11.00am at The Pavilion, Mansfield Bowling Club, Chesterfield
Road, Mansfield.
Please contact me if you have any questions or for further information.
Don Wright (01623 628946)
Garden Visits 2013
We have planned two visits this summer:
   FRIDAY 17TH MAY.
   Burton Agnes Hall is an Elizabethan Manor House in the village of Burton Agnes in East
   Yorkshire. It was built by Sir Henry Griffin in the early 17th Century to a design by Robert
   Smythson. The Hall is surrounded by award-winning gardens that include a Garden gallery, a
   Walled garden and stunning herbaceous borders.
   Cost £22.50. Coach departs from the Odeon Complex Mansfield 8 am.
   FRIDAY 19TH JULY.
   Trentham Gardens and Wollerton Old Hall Garden. After some retail therapy and/or garden
   exploration at Trentham, we travel on to Wollerton Old Hall Gardens in the afternoon. Designed
   by Lesley Jenkins, they are reputed to be one of the most beautiful gardens created in the past
   25 years. A garden for the plant enthusiast and lots of design ideas. There are wonderful
   collections of clematis, salvias, phlox and roses.
   Cost £19.50. Coach departs from the Odeon Complex Mansfield 8 am.
To book a place, come and see us at the monthly meeting or ring me on 651528.
Marion Thornton
Local History
THE MARCH meeting of the Local History group was given a talk by Linda Mallett and Stuart
Reddish entitled 'According To Local Custom'.
Spanning over a thousand years of the history of Sherwood Forest from the Vikings to the
Plantagenet Kings to the Dukeries and on to the second world war. A very interesting two hours.

Excellent, as everyone present showed through the warmth of their applause to Linda and Stuart!
Bob & Sue Longden
Digital World
CONGRATULATIONS Eric Hall (Sherwood U3A) who took first place in the 'People Relaxing at
Thoresby' photographic competition, ahead of our own Sylvia Atkinson and Jackie Ling in second
and third places. Pam Farrell (Hucknall U3A) was Highly Commended. All the winners interpreted
'relaxing' by showing walkers in snow fields so the judges gave particular credit to exposure
settings that compensated for the glare. They are all on the website.
Do come along to Stanton Hill Baptist Church at 2.00 on any 2nd or 4th Friday if you'd like to join
in and share tips about making the most of your camera or learn about simple photo editing.
David Ling

                                            Page 10 of 12
Theatre Visits
     •    Wed 15th May PM: 'The Mouse Trap' – Theatre Royal, Nottingham.
     • Tues/Wed 11th/12th June: London Theatre Visit. Cost £149 or £119.50 (£35 single
          supplement)
          £149 includes coach, B & B in St Giles Hotel near the Victoria Palace, stall tickets to Billy
          Elliot and entrance to Kensington Palace and Gardens on the way home. (£119.50:
          own choice of show.)
          I shall need a deposit of £30 at the March meeting – although the company has
          extended the deadline, cheques have to be posted by the 21st March to arrive in time. (Or
          drop them off at my or Margaret Burlinson's house.)
          It will cost £12.50 for optional two-course meal at Porters in Covent Garden more for
          three courses. We have to reserve places so will need a £5 deposit later if you choose to
          eat there. Cash is welcome but cheques must be payable to Mansfield & District U3A. We
          need only 6 more passengers for the trip to go ahead at the price quoted & if 13
          more sign up the price will come down!
For your information, the ODEON cinema does live satellite transmissions of opera etc. Contact the
cinema for further details.
Sheila Whalley (01623 453908)
Luncheon Club
FEBRUARY'S lunch at Lambs at the Market sold-out within hours of opening for bookings but
they coped very well, despite the numbers and everyone enjoyed themselves as usual.
We will be exploring new ground on March 21st when Margaret Burlinson and Maisie Hammond
will be sharing their enthusiasm for Ania in Sherwood, Nottingham, a Polish-owned and run
restaurant that has collected rave reviews on Trip Advisor and from other U3As.
They are offering a special menu priced at £10 for two courses and £15 for three that will showcase
the national cuisine. I'm told that their Sledzie Z Salatka Jarzynowa (a herring dish) and Filet Piersi
Kurczaka W Sosie ze Śmietana (chicken) are especially notable!
Then, on April 18th, we'll try another new venue, the extensively refurbished Mansfield Manor, to
see what changes the new owners have brought to the Portland-Hotel-that-was of infamy. Recent
reviews have been excellent and Reg and Barbara Dixon are confident that this will be another
worthy addition to Mansfield's dining scene. The menu they've chosen certainly looks excellent and
has something to suit everyone, priced at just £10 for two courses or £13 for three.
Bookings are open today.
David Ling                                                                 Menus are on the website ...

Art Appreciation
MEMBERS of the Art Appreciation group enjoyed a meeting with a difference in March when group
member Molly Pollitt gave a most interesting and enjoyable presentation on the art and illustration of
children's literature. Members were shown examples of work by illustrators including Quintin Blake,
Helen Oxenbury and Dick Bruna and learned the background to the artwork for publications that
included Miffy, the Hungry Caterpillar and The Gruffalo.
Thanks to Molly for a most enlightening afternoon.
Pauline Boucher
Popular Music Appreciation
THE NEXT meeting will be on Tuesday 26th March at the Carnarvon Arms, Teversal at 1.00pm.
Look forward to seeing you all.
Peter Haynes

                                             Page 11 of 12
_______________________________________________________________________________________

Speakers' Corner
OUR SPEAKER today is Maggie Falconer who will be talking about the charity When You Wish
Upon A Star.
For the past 21 years, When You Wish Upon a Star has been granting wishes of children across
the UK, all of whom have a life-threatening illness.
Maggie explains that "each wish" brings a child something special, to forget about their often painful
treatment and to create treasured memories for all the family.
One of the highlights of the talk is a film of over 100 children on a trip to Lapland to see Father
Christmas.
Marilyn Dibble
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Dates for your diary (Check the website for more information and updates.)
Fri. 10th May: ANNUAL COFFEE MORNING at The Towers, 10.00 - 12.00. £2 inc coffee. See p.3.
Details & tickets from Jean Hinds (414393) or Karen Troop (633404).
______________________________________________________________________________
Event and Visit Payments
MEMBERS are reminded that deposits and payments for events and visits organised by Mansfield
U3A and its interest groups are non-refundable, but places so reserved may be offered to others.
______________________________________________________________________________
Changes of address, etc.
PLEASE contact the membership secretary, Avril McGee (01623 452688), if you've changed your
address, phone number or email since joining Mansfield U3A so that she can update our records.
______________________________________________________________________________
Disclaimer
THE VIEWS expressed here are those of the contributors, only, and do not necessarily reflect those
of the editor, the committee of Mansfield U3A or the Third Age Trust. Nor can any responsibility be
accepted for members' announcements or any errors that may occur.
______________________________________________________________________________
Next Issue
PLEASE SEND contributions for the April issue to mansfieldu3a@aol.com, or in typescript to the
editor, as soon as you can and by 1st April at the latest. Thanks!
______________________________________________________________________________
Editor: David Ling (01623 822994)               Printed by: Portland Print (www.portlandprint.org.uk/)

                                             Page 12 of 12

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Mansfield U3A Newsletter: March 2013

  • 1. Mansfield and District U3A Newsletter Quiz Night report: Page 4 _____________________________ Established 1999 HMRC Charity Registration No.: XT30525 March 2013 Website: www.mansfield-u3a.org.uk Noticeboard: http://mansfieldu3a.blogspot.com Page 1 of 12
  • 2. Welcome from your chairman I’M SITTING in the sunshine at the beginning of March writing this ‘letter’ – admittedly behind glass as it’s still freezing outside, but at least I can see the early signs of Spring. How much we depend on these early signs – the bulbs, birds bickering, a different ‘taste’ in the air – to keep our spirits up during the last few weeks of winter. Another sign of a new year is the increasing activity in U3A. The New Members’ meeting was a success (thanks to Avril McGee, our Membership Secretary). I hope that I will meet even more of the new members as time goes on. We would like you to fill-in the questionnaire just so that we know if we, the committee, are doing things right. (Or otherwise!) These forms will be available at the next meeting. Thanks also to Pauline and Ian Boucher for the annual Quiz Night. The time they spend on devising the questions, recording the music, printing the papers and setting up the equipment is beyond belief, and we can only thank them. And we add thanks to the Social Committee under Jean Hinds, all of whom worked hard to provide the buffet for over 100 people. They found willing donors of raffle prizes too, and ladies to sell tickets. Volunteers all. And more volunteers are what we need. Last September, three new Committee Members were elected, and their new enthusiasm and drive has pushed our U3A forward. Bob Longden and Jennie Roberts work hard behind the scenes; Linda Leivers works in full light developing new groups. We all benefit. As we do when new groups are tutored and coordinated by new or recently joined members and other new members have come forward with ideas for groups and for speakers. It all shows a U3A that is alive and thriving. I would like to think that there will be more volunteers to join the committee in September and to help with new or old groups. We can only build for the future if we are driven forward by the members who will take over our roles. There is another group of volunteers I would like to recruit. Next year is the 15th anniversary of the foundation of Mansfield U3A. We have been offered the opportunity to fill a gallery at the Museum with a display of the work that our U3A does. But it needs organising – perhaps an anniversary lunch, perhaps inviting other U3As to join us. Can I ask people interested in the idea to meet me after today’s meeting, or to phone me if they are unable to attend. I think the time has come for us to show Mansfield what we are. Mike Allen ______________________________________________________________________________ In this issue Page 2 Chairman's Welcome. Page 3 Gift Aid. Coffee Morning. Holiday updates. Page 4 Book Table. Recent Events: Quiz Night. Pages 5 - 8 Groups Meeting Programme. Page 9 Recent Events: New members' Coffee Morning. New Groups (Heartstart, Art, Caravan & Motorhome Rally, Board Games, Yoga & Keep Fit) Page 10 Groups News: Art; Bowls; Garden Visits; Digital World. Page 11 Groups News: Theatre Visits; Gardening; Luncheon Club; Art Appreciation; Popular Music Appreciation. Page 12 Speaker's Corner. Dates for your diary. Notices. Page 2 of 12
  • 3. Gift Aid Scheme THANK YOU to all members who have signed-up for the Gift Aid scheme. Forms will again be available at the March meeting for those who have not yet had the opportunity to sign. Mansfield U3A are now registered with the Inland Revenue for the Gift Aid Scheme. This means that if you pay tax to the U.K. Government we can reclaim the tax you paid on your subscription to Mansfield U3A. In order to reclaim this money we have to keep records to satisfy the Inland Revenue. We have a simple Gift Aid declaration that needs to be signed by you and returned to me or any Committee member. This will need doing only once and we can then reclaim tax on your subscriptions for the past 4 years and on all future subscriptions. We would encourage everyone who pays tax to sign up for the scheme as it will cost you nothing and will give us an additional source of income for our U3A. If you have any questions please contact me or any Committee member. Pauline Boucher, Treasurer (01623 644798; paulineboucher15@yahoo.co.uk) Coffee Morning JUST A few words about this annual event: • Most important of all is the change of date – 10th MAY. • It is upstairs at the Towers from 10am - 12noon and the tickets are £2, which includes a cup of coffee. • This is our main fund-raising event of the year and we all have a good time. • Whilst having a cuppa and chat with friends you can also visit the many stalls, which will include tombola, raffle, a fun game, cake and plant stalls. • DONATIONS for the tombola and raffle are needed and can be given to any Social Committee member. On the day, bring any plants and cakes that can also be sold. REMEMBER: ALL the proceeds go into funds and help keep our low subscriptions. Tickets will be on sale at the March meeting. Karen Troop. Holiday Updates Around Britain Cruise – 24th May - 3rd June By the time you read this all balance payment receipts will have arrived and hopefully our personal cruise books with shore tour information. Since these will be sent to the lead passenger only, I have been advised to ask for additional copies to be sent to those sharing a cabin, apart from the married couples. Let me know if you have not received this information. The electronic tickets will be sent by the end of April so I hope you can all come to a meeting on Saturday morning 4th May at 11am - 12noon at the Junction pub in Sutton in Ashfield (was the Cardinal). You may like to stay for a meal afterwards. Tenby – 1st - 5th July The March meeting is the deadline for your balances for this holiday. £268 (sharing) £280 (single room). Cheques to be paid to Mansfield & District U3A. Thursford Christmas Spectacular – 4th, 5th & 6th December April is the deadline for £10 deposits. Add on £10 if you choose the company's insurance. Cheques payable to Mansfield & District U3A. Seventeen people have already chosen their seats so if you are particular as to where you would like to sit then see me ASAP. Margaret Burlinson Details of all holidays are on the website ... Page 3 of 12
  • 4. Book Table YOU MAY remember January was a relative disaster and we only raised £25.40. February was rather better and we raised £51.26. Just in case anyone wonders why we had an odd amount of change, one person (at least) opened her purse and deposited lots of change in the cash box (they had already paid for the books they had purchased). So this February we received £2 more than last year. Carry on. Lilian Whitehead. _______________________________________________________________________________________ Recent Events Quiz Night THE QUIZ Night on Saturday 23rd February at Queen Elizabeth Academy was a huge success. 106 U3A members packed into the hall, found their tables, unpacked their drinks, read the information and question sheets on their tables, took a deep breath and settled in for a night of fun. For some it was a mere dip into the fount of knowledge just beneath the surface of their memories; for the rest of us it required deep thought, earnest discussion and tortured mind-wrestling. Question topics ranged from general knowledge to music, singers, animals, mothers of famous people, and many more. It was interesting to see how many members struggled with the spelling of 'haemorrhoid's', for which some teams could find at least 12 versions. Comfort came in the delicious platters of food prepared by the expert hands of the ladies of the Social Committee (Jean Hinds, Jackie Ling, Karen Troop, Marilyn Stubbs and Janet Whitlam). Then it was back to more questions and playful banter. Judging by the happy faces everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The winning team was from Sherwood U3A, well-named the 'FRAUD SQUAD', who all won a fiver. The raffle, run by Elizabeth Ellis and Sheila Townsend, raised £140.00 that will be donated to 'Help for Heroes'. On behalf of all those attending, the Chairman thanked Pauline and Ian Boucher for setting the questions and asking them and for organising and operating the technology, the ladies of the Social Committee for all their hard work preparing platters of delicious eats, running the raffle (and everyone who donated prizes). They all combined to give us such an enjoyable evening that made a profit of £295 after all expenses; a welcome contribution to Mansfield U3A funds. Jennie Roberts There are more photos on the website ... Page 4 of 12
  • 5. Key to Meetings details: THIS TABLE SHOWS THE DAY of the month, time and frequency using the first two letters of the day, followed by numbers 1 - 5 to represent the week number. The final letter M (or F, W or V) indicates that the group meets monthly, fortnightly, weekly or at variable intervals. So 'Tu2, 2.30 - V M' would mean a group meeting on the 2nd Tuesday at 2.30pm Monthly but with Variable finish times. The main Mansfield and District U3A meetings are on the 3rd Tuesday of each month (except August and December) at the Oakham Suite, 155 Nottingham Road, Mansfield from 10 am - 12.30 pm. Interest Group Meetings Meeting Places Leader/Contact Art (New) We3, 10 -12 M Big Barn Lane Linda Spray Methodist Church, 01623 795176 Mansfield Inaugural Meeting: March 20th; then: April 17th; May 15th Art Appreciation Mo1, 2.00 - 4.00 M Baptist Church, Pauline Boucher Rosemary St. 01623 644798 Mansfield Next Meeting: 29th April – Tea & talk at Thoresby Next Visit: Wed. 29th May – Walker Art Gallery Liverpool Beginners' Bridge Mo, Various Enviro Centre, Maxine Rose/Glenis (With Ashfield U3A) 6.30 - 9.00 Derby Rd College, Carr Mansfield 01623 459081/627735 Next Meetings: 18th March; 8th & 22nd April; 13th May (Also Acol sessions at the Mechanics Institute – Th, 10 - 12.30 W) Board Games (New) Mo F, 6.30 The Rushley Inn, Linda Leivers Nottingham Road, 01623 471963 Mansfield Next Meetings: 18th March, 1st & 15th April Bowls Th, 1.30 - 3.30 W Lammas Don Wright Centre/Mansfield 01623 628946 Bowls Club Next Meetings: March 14th (End of Season at Lammas); 22nd March (11.00am) pre-season meeting at Bowls Club Pavilion; 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th May & 6th June with coaching Caravan & M'home TBA Various Terry Lammas Rally (New) 01623 471963 Inaugural Meeting: Fri. 31st May to 2nd June – Skellingthorpe, nr Doddington Hall, Lincolnshire Chat and Stitch Mo3, 2.00 - 4.00 M St John's Centre, Doreen Storer Mansfield 01623 407731 Next Meetings: 18th March; 15th April All members are invited to contact the relevant Group Leader if they would like to participate in any interest group or attend an event. NB: * indicates a waiting list. Page 5 of 12
  • 6. Interest Group Meetings Meeting Place Leader/Contact Current Affairs Tu2, 2.00 - 4.00 M St John's Centre, Norma Shillinglaw St John's Street, 01623 466934 Mansfield Next Meetings: March 12th; April 9th Digital World Fri 2 & 4, 2.00 - 4.00 Stanton Hill Baptist David Ling 2/M Church, Albert St.. 01623 822994 Skegby Next Meetings: 22nd March – Art of Seeing Pt2 & PhotoShop Clone Stamp Tool Pt 2 Family History Tu4, 10.00 - 12.00 M St John's Centre, Max Clarke Mansfield 01623 621744 Next Meeting: TBA Film Studies * We1, 1.30 - V M Joy's home Joy Crowe 01623 645400 Next Meetings: 1st April Garden Visits During the Summer Various Marion Thornton 01623 651528 Next Visits: 17th May – Burton Agnes Hall; 19th July – Trentham Gardens and Wollerton Old Hall Gardening Tu1, 10.00 - 12.00 M St Peter's Centre, Avril McGee Mansfield 01623 452688 Next Meetings: 2nd April – Chris Cox: Clematis; 7th May –Janette Merilion: Birds, Butterflies & Bees Heartstart (New) Th3, 1.00 - 3.00 William Kaye Hall, Linda Leivers Ladybrook Lane 01623 471963 Next Meetings: 18th April; 13th June Holidays Various TBA Margaret Burlinson (Home & Abroad) 01623 632538 Next holidays: 24th May - 3rd June – Around Britain Cruise; 1st - 5th July – Tenby; 4th, 5th & 6th December – Thursford Christmas Spectacular Keep Fit (New) TBA TBA Linda Leivers 01623 471963 Inaugural Meeting: TBA Local History Fri1, 10.00 - 12.00 M The Rushley Inn, Bob & Sue Longden Nottingham Road 01623 486903 Next Meetings: 5th April – Mansfield Brewery with Ian Boucher Next visit: 5th July – Severn Valley Railway (Joint trip with Sci-Tech) Luncheon Club Th after 3rd Tu, Various David Ling 12.00 - 2.00 M 01623 822994 Next Meetings: March 21st – Ania, Sherwood; April 18th – Mansfield Manor Page 6 of 12
  • 7. Interest Group Meetings Meeting Place Leader/Contact Music Groups Classical Music 1 * Th2, 2.00 - 4.00 M Members' homes Alan & Marlene Radford 01623 427934 Next Meetings: 14th February – Chopin with Peter; 14th March – Donizetti with TBA Classical Music 2 Mo4, 2.00 - 4.00 M Members' homes Peter Hart 01623 620940 Next Meetings: 25th February – Borodin & Mussorsky with Sheila; 25th March – Saint Saens & Fauré with Marie Concert Visits (New) Various Royal Concert Hall, David Ling (With Southwell U3A) Nottingham 01623 822994 Inaugural Meeting: TBA Music 2 * Mo4, 2.00 - 4.30 M Members' homes Eric Prescott 01623 631160 Next Meeting: TBA Popular Music Tu4, 2.00 - 4.00 M St John's School, Peter Haynes Appreciation * Mansfield 01623 610886 Next Meeting: 26th March at the Carnarvon Arms, Teversal at 1.00pm Pudding Club * Tu1, 4.00 - 6.00 M Members' homes Sylvia Slack 01623 633981 Next Meetings: April 2nd at Janet's; May 7th at Sylvia's Reading 1 * Th3, 2.00 - 4.00 M Peter Dawson's home Peter Dawson 01623 882191 Next Meetings: 21st March; 18th April; 16th May Reading 2 Tu3, 2.00 - 4.00 M Ravenshead Library Joan Hufton 01623 557488 Next Meetings: 19th March; 16th April; 21st May Science & Technical Tu1, 1.30 - 3.30 M Stanton Hill Baptist Ian Boucher Church, Albert St. 01623 644798 Skegby Next Meetings: 2nd April – Sounds and Vibrations with Peter Thurkettle; 7th May – Origins of Weather Forecasting with Graham Allin Next visits: 4th June – Pleasley Colliery Museum; 5th July – Severn Valley Railway (Joint trip with Local History) Scrabble * Mo2, 2.00 - 4 .00 M Brenda Thurkettle's Brenda Thurkettle home 01623 628136 Next Meetings: 11th March; 8th April; 13th May; 10th May Page 7 of 12
  • 8. Interest Group Meetings Meeting Place Leader/Contact Singing for Fun Th V West Notts College, June Fell Derby Rd. Mansfield 01623 623547 Next Meetings: March 21st, April TBA Tai Chi Mo, 9.30 - 10.30 W St John's Centre, Cliff Laycock Mansfield 01623 481985 Next Meetings: March 11th, 18th & 25th; April 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th Theatre Visits Various Various Sheila Whalley 01623 453908 Sun. 10th March – Me and My Girl. (Matinee at the Palace Theatre, Mansfield). Wed. 17th April – Blood Brothers. (Matinee at the Theatre Royal, Nottingham.) Wed. 15th May – The Mouse Trap. (Evening at the Theatre Royal, Nottingham.) Walking Groups Hikers Th1 & Mo3, 9.30 - V Tesco car park, off Peter Thurkettle (all-day, 6 - 8 miles) 2/M Oak Tree Lane 01623 628136 Next Meetings: Mon. 18 March – Ockbrook & Dale Abbey; Thurs. 4th April – Normanton & Keyworth; Mon. 15 April – Ilam / Manifold / Wetton Strollers We2, 10.30 - V M Various Barbara Massey / (a leisurely 2 miles) Marion Thornton 01623 628357 / 01623 651528 Next Meetings: 13th March – Sherwood Forest; 10th April – Vicar Water; 8th May – Rufford Abbey Walkers We4, 10.30 – V M Various Joy & Nick Crowe (an easy 4 - 5 miles) 01623 645400 Next Meetings: 27th March – Spa Ponds; 24th April – Sansom Woods and Papplewick Wine Appreciation We3, 7.30 - V M Members' homes Mike Allen 2* 01623 653345 Next Meetings: March 20th – Reds, own choice, with RB; April 17th – Macon-Villages with K/NS Wine Appreciation Tu4, 7.30 - V M Members' homes Graham Allin 3* 01623 473662 Next Meetings: March 26th – Wide price range reds with Barrie & Lynne; Apr 23 – Port with Jill Writing for Pleasure * Mo2, 2.00 - 4.00 M The Stanhope Centre Sue Ford / Hilary (Bridge St. Methodist Miller 01623 Church), Mansfield. 844286 / 620067 Next Meetings: 11th March; 8th April; 13th May; 10th June Yoga We, 1.00 - 3.00 W Bridge Street Linda Leivers Methodist Church, 01623 471963 Mansfield Inaugural Meeting: 27th March Page 8 of 12
  • 9. New Members' Meeting A BIG thank you to all those who attended the new members' coffee morning – new members, group leaders and committee members alike. A particular thanks to Jean Hinds for the refreshments much appreciated by all. Avril McGee There are more photos on the website ... ______________________________________________________________________________ Groups News (Check the Interest Group web pages for updates) New Groups THE PAST MONTH has seen us launch a number of new groups and projects: • Heartstart, where there are still training vacancies. See the Notice Boards and website for dates and further information. • Art, which commences on the 20th March. Please see below and contact Linda Spray to ensure you have a place. • Caravan & Motorhome Rally. The first rally will be on 31st May, 1st & 2nd June at Skellingthorpe nr. Lincoln. Please see website or notice Boards for more information. • Board Games had its first meeting on the 4th March, played Yahtzee and learnt Canasta, which were greatly enjoyed. The group will now meet bi-weekly starting on 18th March so please contact me if you would like to join in the fun. • Yoga was due to commence on the 6th of March but has been delayed to the 27th due to our teacher, Sarah Hollis suffering bereavement. There are a few places left on this course, please contact me for details. • Keep Fit is still in the planning stages but a large number have expressed an interest and we'll be able to launch this group as soon as I can locate a teacher. Keep your ideas coming in, either to me or via the suggestions box. I don’t think we can do underwater basket weaving, but we could try. Linda Leivers, Groups Co-ordinator Art THE NEW Art Group starts the day after the March meeting i.e. 20th, 10 - 12 at Big Barn Lane Methodist Church. Michael Morton, a U3A member and former illustrator, has agreed to give some tutoring to those of us who feel there is room for improvement. This group is for 'hands-on' painting or drawing and is not to be confused with that other excellent interest group Art Appreciation. Come along and dispel the myth that you have no aptitude. Refreshments will be provided and you will be given a warm welcome. For the first session just some soft B pencils and a sketch pad are all that is required. Linda Spray Page 9 of 12
  • 10. Bowls THE 2012/2013 indoor bowls sessions ended on the 14th March and outdoor bowling will commence at the Mansfield Bowling Club, Chesterfield Road, Mansfield on Thursday 9th May 1.30pm to 3.30pm and every Thursday through to the closing of the green on 28th September. The first five Thursdays, qualified coaches, Mike Lake and Mel. Savidge will be in attendance. Members new to bowling are very welcome to come along and have a go. Bowls will be provided, but flat-soled shoes must be worn. The cost per session will be £2. Whether you are a Beginner, Novice, or an experience Player, all will be made very welcome. There will be a pre-season meeting to meet the coaches and discuss the activities of the Bowls Group on Friday 22nd March 11.00am at The Pavilion, Mansfield Bowling Club, Chesterfield Road, Mansfield. Please contact me if you have any questions or for further information. Don Wright (01623 628946) Garden Visits 2013 We have planned two visits this summer: FRIDAY 17TH MAY. Burton Agnes Hall is an Elizabethan Manor House in the village of Burton Agnes in East Yorkshire. It was built by Sir Henry Griffin in the early 17th Century to a design by Robert Smythson. The Hall is surrounded by award-winning gardens that include a Garden gallery, a Walled garden and stunning herbaceous borders. Cost £22.50. Coach departs from the Odeon Complex Mansfield 8 am. FRIDAY 19TH JULY. Trentham Gardens and Wollerton Old Hall Garden. After some retail therapy and/or garden exploration at Trentham, we travel on to Wollerton Old Hall Gardens in the afternoon. Designed by Lesley Jenkins, they are reputed to be one of the most beautiful gardens created in the past 25 years. A garden for the plant enthusiast and lots of design ideas. There are wonderful collections of clematis, salvias, phlox and roses. Cost £19.50. Coach departs from the Odeon Complex Mansfield 8 am. To book a place, come and see us at the monthly meeting or ring me on 651528. Marion Thornton Local History THE MARCH meeting of the Local History group was given a talk by Linda Mallett and Stuart Reddish entitled 'According To Local Custom'. Spanning over a thousand years of the history of Sherwood Forest from the Vikings to the Plantagenet Kings to the Dukeries and on to the second world war. A very interesting two hours. Excellent, as everyone present showed through the warmth of their applause to Linda and Stuart! Bob & Sue Longden Digital World CONGRATULATIONS Eric Hall (Sherwood U3A) who took first place in the 'People Relaxing at Thoresby' photographic competition, ahead of our own Sylvia Atkinson and Jackie Ling in second and third places. Pam Farrell (Hucknall U3A) was Highly Commended. All the winners interpreted 'relaxing' by showing walkers in snow fields so the judges gave particular credit to exposure settings that compensated for the glare. They are all on the website. Do come along to Stanton Hill Baptist Church at 2.00 on any 2nd or 4th Friday if you'd like to join in and share tips about making the most of your camera or learn about simple photo editing. David Ling Page 10 of 12
  • 11. Theatre Visits • Wed 15th May PM: 'The Mouse Trap' – Theatre Royal, Nottingham. • Tues/Wed 11th/12th June: London Theatre Visit. Cost £149 or £119.50 (£35 single supplement) £149 includes coach, B & B in St Giles Hotel near the Victoria Palace, stall tickets to Billy Elliot and entrance to Kensington Palace and Gardens on the way home. (£119.50: own choice of show.) I shall need a deposit of £30 at the March meeting – although the company has extended the deadline, cheques have to be posted by the 21st March to arrive in time. (Or drop them off at my or Margaret Burlinson's house.) It will cost £12.50 for optional two-course meal at Porters in Covent Garden more for three courses. We have to reserve places so will need a £5 deposit later if you choose to eat there. Cash is welcome but cheques must be payable to Mansfield & District U3A. We need only 6 more passengers for the trip to go ahead at the price quoted & if 13 more sign up the price will come down! For your information, the ODEON cinema does live satellite transmissions of opera etc. Contact the cinema for further details. Sheila Whalley (01623 453908) Luncheon Club FEBRUARY'S lunch at Lambs at the Market sold-out within hours of opening for bookings but they coped very well, despite the numbers and everyone enjoyed themselves as usual. We will be exploring new ground on March 21st when Margaret Burlinson and Maisie Hammond will be sharing their enthusiasm for Ania in Sherwood, Nottingham, a Polish-owned and run restaurant that has collected rave reviews on Trip Advisor and from other U3As. They are offering a special menu priced at £10 for two courses and £15 for three that will showcase the national cuisine. I'm told that their Sledzie Z Salatka Jarzynowa (a herring dish) and Filet Piersi Kurczaka W Sosie ze Śmietana (chicken) are especially notable! Then, on April 18th, we'll try another new venue, the extensively refurbished Mansfield Manor, to see what changes the new owners have brought to the Portland-Hotel-that-was of infamy. Recent reviews have been excellent and Reg and Barbara Dixon are confident that this will be another worthy addition to Mansfield's dining scene. The menu they've chosen certainly looks excellent and has something to suit everyone, priced at just £10 for two courses or £13 for three. Bookings are open today. David Ling Menus are on the website ... Art Appreciation MEMBERS of the Art Appreciation group enjoyed a meeting with a difference in March when group member Molly Pollitt gave a most interesting and enjoyable presentation on the art and illustration of children's literature. Members were shown examples of work by illustrators including Quintin Blake, Helen Oxenbury and Dick Bruna and learned the background to the artwork for publications that included Miffy, the Hungry Caterpillar and The Gruffalo. Thanks to Molly for a most enlightening afternoon. Pauline Boucher Popular Music Appreciation THE NEXT meeting will be on Tuesday 26th March at the Carnarvon Arms, Teversal at 1.00pm. Look forward to seeing you all. Peter Haynes Page 11 of 12
  • 12. _______________________________________________________________________________________ Speakers' Corner OUR SPEAKER today is Maggie Falconer who will be talking about the charity When You Wish Upon A Star. For the past 21 years, When You Wish Upon a Star has been granting wishes of children across the UK, all of whom have a life-threatening illness. Maggie explains that "each wish" brings a child something special, to forget about their often painful treatment and to create treasured memories for all the family. One of the highlights of the talk is a film of over 100 children on a trip to Lapland to see Father Christmas. Marilyn Dibble _______________________________________________________________________________________ Dates for your diary (Check the website for more information and updates.) Fri. 10th May: ANNUAL COFFEE MORNING at The Towers, 10.00 - 12.00. £2 inc coffee. See p.3. Details & tickets from Jean Hinds (414393) or Karen Troop (633404). ______________________________________________________________________________ Event and Visit Payments MEMBERS are reminded that deposits and payments for events and visits organised by Mansfield U3A and its interest groups are non-refundable, but places so reserved may be offered to others. ______________________________________________________________________________ Changes of address, etc. PLEASE contact the membership secretary, Avril McGee (01623 452688), if you've changed your address, phone number or email since joining Mansfield U3A so that she can update our records. ______________________________________________________________________________ Disclaimer THE VIEWS expressed here are those of the contributors, only, and do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, the committee of Mansfield U3A or the Third Age Trust. Nor can any responsibility be accepted for members' announcements or any errors that may occur. ______________________________________________________________________________ Next Issue PLEASE SEND contributions for the April issue to mansfieldu3a@aol.com, or in typescript to the editor, as soon as you can and by 1st April at the latest. Thanks! ______________________________________________________________________________ Editor: David Ling (01623 822994) Printed by: Portland Print (www.portlandprint.org.uk/) Page 12 of 12