10TH EDITION FUN WITH FLOWERS

WALKING GROUP SUMMER PICNIC START POINT

SINGING FOR PLEASURE ENTERTAINMENT EVENING

FRONT COVER - THE WILD FLOWER AREA AT ASHTREE GARDENS COMMITTEE

CHAIRMAN CAROLYN SCHOFIELD TEL: 843638

VICE CHAIRMAN VERNON TAYLOR TEL: 856829

SECRETARY SYLVIA GRIFFIN TEL: 856956

TREASURER LINDA COTON TEL: 842258

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY JUDY TYLER TEL: 842217

SPEAKER SECRETARY SHEILA HARRISON TEL: 854559

GROUPS COORDINATOR ANTHEA McWATT TEL: 581399

VISITS ORGANISER TONY WESTLAKE TEL: 531562

PUBLICITY ANITA DUNSTER TEL: 852452

WEBSITE RODNEY STRONG TEL:852255

COMMITTEE LIZ PLAYLE TEL: 853242

TEL: 857242 JACKIE STACEY

NEWSLETTER EDITORS JUDY TYLER AND LINDA COTON

WEBSITE. www.u3asites.org.uk/kingsbridgeestuary PRINTED BY JOAINE - CHURCH OFFICE CHAIRMAN’S CHAT

As always I would like to thank my fellow committee members and officers of our U3A branch for their professionalism and hard work, and to include very specifically Rodney Strong, who beavers away unseen collecting information and keeping our website up to date. I would urge those of you with access to the Internet to keep a regular eye on the website. It is also a pleasant duty to thank all the group leaders for the dedication and initiative with which our groups are run. More groups are READY TO ENTER emerging all the time, covering a variety of THE CAVES interests; a good reason to keep an eye on that website! Various new initiatives are in the pipeline. After Gill Matthews’ inspiring talk about in Bloom the membership supported our proposal to sponsor one of their displays. This is now in hand and you should shortly be noticing the U3A logo in a prominent position by the taxi-rank. The Beacon System for managing our membership is coming on stream, and will be used for some communications with those members on the Internet, so please make sure that emails from Judy Tyler, Liz Playle, or Jackie Stacey (so far) are not condemned to ‘Spam’ on your computer. Finally we are in process of revising our constitution to reflect the Third Age Trust’s latest recommendations in order to apply for charitable status (a legal requirement for a branch of our size), and in the new year we shall be seeking the endorsement of the membership for the new draft. Watch this space.! We are always keen to encourage the participation of our members in the running of the branch, whether by contributing to the Newsletter, helping to run the monthly meetings, or making suggestions for speakers and outings (to name but a few), but at this time we would particularly encourage any recently retired solicitor among our membership to volunteer to cast an eye over our proposals for the new constitution. Would any such be kind enough get in touch with me? By the time you read this we shall already have had our celebratory Christmas dinner together, so I will conclude by wishing every member a very Happy New . WEBSITE www.u3asites.org.uk/kingsbridgeestuary

I truly believe that for a website to be useful it must be up-to-date, so action is needed frequently. In our U3A many groups can explain their activities in general terms that don’t change much with time. Others have new information at least once a month and I am grateful to their group leaders for regular updates. We also have changing information about speakers at our forthcoming monthly meetings and details of future outings on the Events page. If you haven’t used the website yet please enter the address at the top here in the address bar of your browser. It’s worth it to keep in touch with all our activities. RODNEY STRONG

TEAS AND COFFEES HALL ARRANGEMENT AT MONTHLY MEETINGS If you could help with refreshments at the monthly CONTINUED HELP FROM meetings, please sign the rota MEMBERS IS APPRECIATED BY or contact HELPING TO PUT OUT AND PUT TRICIA - 842507 OR AWAY CHAIRS AT THE MONTHLY MEETING BUNNY 843332 MONTHLY MEETINGS 10AM AT THE METHODIST CHURCH KINGSBRIDGE

January 27th Tessa Spencer: Genealogist ‘Time Detective’ Finding out about your past Most of Tessa’s working life has been spent teaching reception age children. After living in , Germany, Cyprus and France and bringing up a family, she and her husband finally fulfilled their plan to retire to . Her brother started her interest in the family tree. Most people know about their parents and grandparents but what about further back? Where did you ancestors live and what were their occupations? All this information is now widely available on the internet and we can go back as far as the 1841 census. Parish records go even further

February 24th Andrew ThompsoN‘Tavistock - 1000 Years of History’ Andrew is an Archaeologist and historian who has spent most of his working life exploring and interpreting the history and heritage of South West England. Earlier in his career he taught history in higher education. He has recently been appointed Tavistock Heritage Development Officer and is a consultant on the Tavistock Guildhall Project. His talk is a virtual version of his most popular guided walk.

March 24th The Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe DSG ‘Life after Westminster’ Ann will talk about Strictly Come Dancing and the Strictly Tour, also the Royal Opera House and her writing career.

● PLEASE NOTE: This will be a TICKET ONLY EVENT. ● To be held at PARISH HALL ● TICKETS WILL BE ISSUED ‘FIRST COME FIRST SERVED‘ AT THE JANUARY AND FEBRUARY MONTHLY MEETINGS. ● ONE TICKET PER MEMBER ONLY ● PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU NEED OR CAN OFFER A LIFT April 28th Nick Townsend ‘Born Free - A Seregenti Childhood’ Born in Tanzania, Nick spent most of his childhood in Masailand in Northern Tanzania. Masailand covered the Serengeti, Tarangire and Arusha national parks as well as the Ngorongoro Conservation area, Kilimanjaro foothills and Lake Natron. He will be talking about the encounters he and his family had with wildlife, in their home and garden but most frequently travelling around Masailand with his parents. He will illustrate his talk with photos’ taken by his father in the 1950’s and early 60’s, supplemented by some of his own when he returned to East Africa in 1973 and 2000. Nick completed his education and professional qualifications as a civil engineer in England He worked for thirty years in the Asia pacific region. Now retired, he and his wife live in the . May 26th AGM June 23rd and July 28th To be arranged

A TASTE OF WHAT’S TO COME - proposed Speaker

The History of Cosa Nostra, the Sicilian Mafia One can easily be seduced into identifying with the heightened sense of family, danger, ambition and honour in the portrayal of the mafia in films and novels. In truth the behaviour of the mafia is more horrifically brutal and its sense of “honour” more grotesquely distorted than could ever be part of a Hollywood film. The term “mafia” has come to be used for criminal organisations all over the world but few people have a clear understanding of the origins and development of the Sicilian original, “Cosa Nostra”. This talk attempts to explain how the organisation was born at the time of Italian unification and came to be embedded into the very fabric of Italian political life as the country emerged from the trauma of the Second World War. Richard Haigh, a retired head teacher is an amateur historian and lover of Italy in general, and of Sicily in particular. CHURCH VISITS

Contact David Chubb Tel: 856386

We are coming to the end of another successful season of visits to some of our wonderful historic church buildings. As I write this we are planning a second trip to Synagogue in November. The first was a great day out and a number of folk have asked for a further visit. We are likely to get well over thirty.

Our remaining visits for the 2016/2017 season are:

January - no visit

February - Hopefully we can go to the beautifully restored church of St Peter in Plymouth,

March - Ilsington Church

April -

May - to be decided

None of our trips would be complete without the lunch afterwards!

May 2017 sees me having led the group for five years. It is time to hand over to someone else. Think about it please! I have thoroughly enjoyed the research, the buildings and the friendship of so many who have joined us. Much pleasure from learning about a way of life over the last eight hundred years which had probably gone on for ever. I am very happy to help the person who might like to take it on. DAVID CHUBB

THANK YOU DAVID FOR ALL THE NUMEROUS VISITS YOU HAVE ORGANISED.

SYNAGOGUE VISIT

Yet another triumph for David Chubb was the visit to the Plymouth Synagogue. From the outside an unprepossessing building with no visible means of entry - did you know that Synagogues should be hidden away - neither did we! But the reveal was an eye-opener and the knowledgeable guide also a revelation. For the past 10 years the caretaker and guide of this building has been Gerry - not a Jew but one consumed with the desire to open to Christians and non-Christians a window in to the past and present history of Plymouth Jews. His enthusiasm was infectious and we listened intently to his tales. The purpose of this piece is to whet your appetite and leave you wanting to learn more so WATCH THIS SPACE in the next Newsletter WALKS WITH PUB LUNCH

Our walks start at 10.15am, meeting at a pub or cafe where we have lunch when we finish. We walk for about two and a half hours and for up to a maximum of 6 miles.

Leader: Andy Coton Tel:842258

3rd January New Year Walk - tba

28th February Staverton, Snowdrop Walk

28th March Hope Cove, Coastal Walk

25th April Beesands and Widewell Woods

23rd May , and River Avon

27th June Dartmoor, Lustleigh Cleave

25th July To be arranged

SUMMER WALK AND PICNIC

On a glorious summer day in July about twenty walkers set off round the Coastal path. Leaving the cars at Start Point car park, we followed the valley down to Mattiscombe Sand then turning right to take in the magnificent view of Start Point and viewing the strong currents that flow round this area. We retraced our steps towards the Lighthouse stopping along the way to watch some seals swimming in the more sheltered waters around the corner towards the bay. Climbing then along the ridge some of us returned to the top, while others took a guided tour of the lighthouse. We set up picnic tables, laid out rugs and all enjoyed a bring and share lunch. How lucky we were with the weather. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ANDY has led some glorious walks this year to such interesting venues including:-

DARTMOOR - once again a sunny day, with lunch outside a Moorland Pub.

DARTMOUTH - enjoying the bluebells and stunning views from Gallants Bower.

The October walk started at BANTHAM through green lanes and farmland then back following the River Avon with glorious views across the river and towards BURGH ISLAND

This Group is very popular which is not surprising as ANDY researches the venues and terrain meticulously. 42 VISITS IN THE LAST 5 YEARS !!! 2012 2013

Devonport Exmouth U3A Extravaganza Architecture/Heritage House Barbican Norman Lockyer Observatory Naval Base Heritage Museum

2014 2015 Lady Astor’s House Royal albert Museum Exeter Devonport Heritage Fisherman’s Rest Skittles museum/HMS Courageous Paignton Zoo Lukesland House and gardens Wheal Martyn China Clay Mothercombe gardens Museum Abbotsbury swannery and Bodmin Gaol subtropical gardens Eden Project Babbacombe Extravaganza Salisbury (4 days residential) Bath Residential visit Rosemoor Coldharbour Mill/Tiverton Ugbrooke House (visit with Barge lunch) Barn Owl Trust Ashburton Rivermaid Estuary trip (with Lopwell Dam/ Lunch Maristow French U3A) Gardens RNAS Yeovilton Britannia Royal Naval College U3A Musical evening Theatre Royal Cattedown Kents Cavern Midsummer Night’s Dream Torre Abbey

2016 2017 ???? Newton Abbot races Lost Gardens of Heligan Oxford (residential 5 days) Seaton Jurassic Museum TONY NEEDS YOUR HELP Tramway and Beer caves Buckfast Abbey bee keeping experience ● What do you want ? Walk Devonport Heritage ● Where would you like to go ? trail Lady Astor’s House ● What about repeating Kent’s Cavern Romeo and favourites ? Juliet ● Your ideas please to Tony VISITS

JANUARY 17th SKITTLES EVENING at The Fishermans Rest, JUNE 27th HESTERCOMBE GARDENS AND HOUSE, TAUNTON These unique gardens span 3 centuries of garden design. Set in 50 acres, including a Victorian shrubbery, Georgian landcaping and Edwardian Formal Gardens. SEPTEMBER 26th BICTON BOTANICAL GARDENS Spanning nearly 300 years of horticultural history these are Grade 1 listed gardens.

The June and September outings will be by coach and be combined with the garden appreciation group TONY WILL UPDATE THE WEBSITE AS THE VISITS DEVELOP & WOULD LOVE IDEAS AND SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE OUTINGS AND VISITS. PLEASE CONTACT HIM Tel: 531562

POSSIBLE VISIT TO GLASGOW SEPTEMBER 2017

Following a talk by Barbara Butcher several members expressed an interest in visiting Glasgow to see the works and architecture of Charles Rennie Macintosh. The proposed date is 8th September 2017. Staying at the Hilton Hotel this trip includes an evening lecture followed by a 3 course dinner on Friday. On Saturday a guided tour to CRM buildings with transport. Evening dinner at the Glasgow Art Club. Sunday guided tour ending 4.00pm. Cost £449 inc. An extra night at the Hilton £54 twin, £78 single. Tony is researching Transport from Exeter airport via Flybe. PLEASE let Tony know asap if you would like to go as this tour is very popular and may soon be full. An alternate date in October may be a possibility but the weather and daylight will not be so good then. GROUP ACTIVITY CORNER

All our groups continue to flourish, thanks to the hard work of those who organise and lead the groups, and we have three new groups: Fun with Flowers, Scrabble and French Conversation. In order to continue to sustain our group activities and develop new groups, we need to support members who are willing to take on the role of 'leader'. To that end two workshops have been held with group leaders to produce an Information Support Pack for new (and existing) leaders. The pack has combined information from 'Time to Learn' a publication from central U3A, important documentation from our U3A Kingsbridge Estuary Committee, and contributions from our local leaders. Any member who would like further information about this pack, please contact Anthea. The Group Coordinator and the Vice Chairman, attended a regional workshop in October, where they met Samantha Mauger, the U3A's new Chief Executive Officer, who emphasised the need to keep in touch with the 'grassroots' of the organisation: the members of U3A, and those who 'lead' the service: committee members and group leaders. Though she agreed that many U3A's have a major role in combating loneliness and isolation, the emphasis in U3A is as much about learning as it is about social interaction. At national level, they are developing a standard approach for new U3A's, and all U3A branches have been asked to contribute by completing a questionnaire on how their branch is managed. NEW GROUPS for 2017. There will be a second Philosophy group starting in January 2017, called Philosophy – a Historical Perspective, led by Mary Martell. A third book group will also start, led by Tricia Blazeby and Mary Massey will be the new liasion for the Local History Group. A Current Affairs Discussion Group has been proposed and anyone who might be interested should contact me in the first instance. The Natural History group is being co-ordinated by Brenda Hope, who has asked for group members to contact her with items of interest and ideas. For contact details of all of these groups please refer to middle section of the newsletter. Thank you to all the group leaders for their continued contribution to our U3A and for their hard work in providing interesting activities, fun and friendliness for all our members. ANTHEA MCWATT

SEPTEMBER OPEN MEETING

The September Open meeting of KEU3A attracted many existing U3A members and some non-members who were eager to learn about the wide range of activity groups available in the area. The newly formed Accessible Garden Group was popular, as it provides a second garden appreciation group, with the focus on gardens that are a little more accessible for those with restricted mobility. Scrabble was announced as the latest interest group and attracted quite a lot of interest. Singing for Pleasure entertained members during the morning and was rewarded with some new members. Members of the Stretch and Tone group demonstrated the use of resistance bands much to the delight of the audience. After the meeting, group leaders were invited to a 'thank you' buffet lunch, though they had to 'earn' the lunch through their contribution to the workshop delivered by Anthea, the KEU3A Group Coordinator. The intended outcome of this workshop will be the production of a group leader's information pack, that will provide support material and guidance for new (and existing) group leaders. NEW AND PROPOSED GROUPS

CLASSICAL GREEK ART John Davie, a retired teacher of Classics who now teaches students at Oxford one day a week, is offering to lead a new group in 2017. The group would look at the development of classical Greek art, mainly sculpture, from its beginnings in the time of Homer to the naturalism of the Hellenistic Age after the death of Alexander the Great. No technical knowledge is required and John intends to provide the group with illustrated examples from museums all over the world. The group would consider works of art in their historical context, and gain an insight into the society and values of the Ancient Greeks, as well as an appreciation of the art.. All of which underpins so much of the Italian Renaissance and the world we inhabit today. It is proposed to hold meetings monthly, Monday or Friday, in Thurlestone or Kingsbridge. Contact JOHN Tel. 714364

GENTLE GARDEN GROUP See Garden Group page contact JOYCE

CURRENT AFFAIRS It has been suggested that some people might be interested in forming a Current Affairs Discussion Group. Maybe to let off steam about something but also to listen to other points of view which would lead to interesting and lively discussion. If you might be interested in this, please contact Anthea McWatt, or if you think you could co-ordinate such a group please mention that to .Contact: Anthea on 01548 581399

PETANQUE

The court in the recreation ground has been resurfaced, we hope a new group will be up and running soon - Contact Jennie Hayden Tel: 852204 NATURAL HISTORY

Contact: Brenda Hope Tel: 07717 073640 PHILOSOPHY

There is be a second Philosophy group starting as of January 2017. To differentiate it from the group I lead, it will be called, Philosophy – A Historical Perspective. The first meeting is Tuesday 17th January, at 2.30 pm, to be held at Mary Martell’s house. ANNE

Contact: Mary - Tel.581398

The group will take a historical look at Philosophy, starting with Socrates and Plato. BEGINNERS SPANISH

The Beginners Spanish class continues to take place on a Wednesday morning once a fortnight in West Charleton. It has now been running for ten months and it has proved to be a very popular class. At present there is a full complement of people with a short waiting list. Everyone seems very committed and enthusiastic about learning the language. The lessons vary in content in order to remain interesting and challenging to help with basic grammar skills, reading, writing and eventually conversation. Great progress has been made by everyone and the classes are hopefully fun as well as educational . Although the class is full at the moment if anyone is interested in joining they should get in touch with me and I will put them on the waiting list. JANE TEL. 531885

FRENCH

The second U3A French language group meets usually twice a month in Salcombe and we follow an internationally recognised course. At present we are a rather select group (ie small) but keen to learn BARBARA MCLARTY TEL.842901

FRENCH CONVERSATION

This is a new class is French Conversation. ANNA WESTLAKE is running the session which gives people the opportunity to chat in French. They meet on Mondays 1.30 - 2.30 at Anna's home in West Charleton. tel. 531562

ITALIAN

So 2016 saw yet another U3A group being formed. Lesley Ferguson who had lived in Italy about twenty years ago for four or five years volunteered to run a beginners group. We meet upstairs in the Crabshell on Monday morning for two hours from 9.30 am. At the moment we are a group of eight using the BBC ‘Buongiorno Italia’ course book. Two of our group already have some knowledge of the language, the rest are absolute beginners. The main thing we all enjoy is having a go at learning a lovely language new to us and have lots of laughs on the way. We would welcome anyone else who fancies trying something new. All the class are very appreciative of Lesley for giving up her Monday morning to lead it. DAVID CHUBB CLASSICAL MUSIC APPRECIATION

We are a friendly group who enjoy listening to music for a variety of reasons. Mostly we want to broaden our knowledge by getting to know more of a composer’s life and music, or to hear some unfamiliar but attractive music – or simply to relax. We started the year with Haydn and discovered why he was affectionately called ‘Papa’ by his orchestra; then came Dvorak with his passionate and uplifting music, and after that we explored the incredible genius of Mozart, who can be light-hearted and sad almost in the same breath. Before the summer break we sampled the best of Rachmaninov, and since then we have embarked on a study of the romantic Russian composers, including Borodin, Mussorgsky and Rimsky Korsakov – with a rousing chorus from the Red Army Choir to finish with! Still to come: Tchaikovsky and the later composers; but for December we will bring some favourite pieces and say why we like them. We meet on the 4�� Monday of every month, at the Rest Centre next door to Quay House, Kingsbridge, from 2 to 4 pm., and we welcome new members. ODETTE BAILEY Tel.560265

BOOK CLUB 2

The Book Club meets generally the first Monday of every month at 2.30. We try to read a broad range of subjects many outside our 'comfort zone'. We ask members to finish the book even if they dislike it as it provides for a lively discussion. It can also prove a surprise sometimes. This month we a reviewing ‘A Testament of Youth’ by Vera Brittain. A story of Vera's own personal experiences and losses during the First World War. A piece of literature which is highly regarded. She was also the mother of Shirley Williams, the politician. The group has been going a few years now and is very enjoyable and we never seem short of books to read or indeed things to say about them. Great fun. JAN

BOOK CLUB 1 CHRIS BARNWELL IS THE THE LEADER AND BOOK CLUB COORDINATOR

BOOK CLUB 3 A new Group, Meeting Thursday pm, contact -TRICIA TEL. 842507 FUN WITH FLOWERS‘

Fun with Flowers is a new group for anyone interested in enjoying being creative with flowers and foliage. Our first meeting was in West Charleton Hall on Tuesday 6th September. Helen started the group off by showing a table decoration she had completed and brought along. Then from 2- 4 pm it was fun all the way, with 12 ladies ‘armed’ with flowers, foliage, secateurs, oasis and simple plastic containers. Creativity flowed under helpful instructions from Helen, and the room was alive with chatter and laughing. Helen told many amusing stories of her life as a florist, and how she fitted this into the role of a farmer’s wife and mother. Coffee, tea and biscuits were enjoyed half way provided by Gill. The completed table decorations from the ladies, most of whom had not arranged flowers before, was as you can see in the pictures, outstanding , and this is only the start… no holding them back now! The emphasis for the group is fun, friendship, learning, sharing, and ‘thinking outside the box’ when creating something beautiful. The class is full, with a waiting list, but another group may be starting in spring, if a day can be found in the U3A busy schedule. HELEN CURTIS (SEE PHOTOS ON INSIDE COVER)

KINGSBRIDGE IN BLOOM SPONSORSHIP

Blooming Great !

As I have a foot in both camps I was delighted that the U3A committee decided to sponsor Kingsbridge in Bloom. This was enthusiastically endorsed by the membership at the AGM. ‘Yes and what do we get for our money?’ I hear you say. If you look closely at the old, wooden, half barrel planter, by the taxi rank and blue semi-circular bench, you will see that it is actually starting to fall apart; although cunningly turned round so the worst bit is at the back! This is a prime site passed by a constant stream of pedestrians every day. Your money will pay for a new and improved planter made of ‘looks-like-wood’ polyethylene. It will be bigger, more durable and incorporate a reservoir which makes it so much easier to keep it watered. During a hot dry spell if plants are allowed to wilt they often struggle to revive to their former glory. Water is fed from the reservoir by means of self-wicking capillary action. Double-walled insulation helps to keep plants cool in summer and warm in winter. Expensive to buy? Yes, but a really worthwhile investment. Only the best is good enough for Kingsbridge. A sign will acknowledge Kingsbridge Estuary U3A as the sponsor so thank you for helping us keep our town looking lovely. GILL MATTHEWS www.kingsbridgeinbloom.co.uk

SEE PICTURE ON BACK PAGE OF THE SPONSORED TUB. SCRABBLE

On Thursday morning, 13th October 2016, the inaugural session of the KEU3A Scrabble Group took place at the Crabshell Inn, Kingsbridge. The four players enjoyed two fun but gently competitive games of Scrabble with Jenny and Liz being crowned ‘Players of the Week'. The proverb says that from small acorns strong oak trees grow and in the same vein, I hope to see this fledgling group attract more players of every ability level who would like to spend two hours every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month in convivial company, extending their word knowledge while enjoying a strong cup of coffee and the fantastic views across the Kingsbridge Estuary. IF you are interested in joining us, please contact me: DEBBIE WYLLIE-SAYED. CRYPTIC CROSSWORD GROUP

Such is the success of this group that our numbers have been boosted to 36 by the new intake of 11 new members who have joined the Beginners course. The numbers would have been even greater if we had been able to accommodate a larger beginners class. The meeting on 20th October set a new record with 27 people attending! The Beginners course lasts 10 sessions and is only offered once a year and is closed for new intake – the next course will start October 2017! The more advanced groups always welcome new members – if you are interested in joining this enthusiastic & friendly group or would just like to try it out please contact Andy on 581164 Please do not come along without first contacting Andy so that sufficient crosswords can be printed off. FOR THE CRYPTIC CROSSWORD FANS! (Found as a clue in a National Newspaper) “THIRD-AGER”? ONE MAY HAVE HESITATION ABOUT SCOTTISH ISLAND (7 letters) Answer on next page FRENCH - INTERMEDIATE

In class we follow a course called Echo A2, and practise grammar and vocabulary through communication, which is after all the main objective in learning a language. To quote Nelson Mandela " If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart." As well as our fortnightly classes which involve a lot of laughter, chat and sometimes singing all ‘en français bien sûr’ we are planning another exchange with our friends from Bordeaux for 2017. The Bordelais will be coming to Kingsbridge for a few days in May and we shall be doing the return leg in September. In the meantime, several members have individually organised trips with their French partners during 2016, which have been a great success. This has led to greater confidence all round, which is really the key element to learning anything. We shall also be celebrating the New Year with a French themed meal at the Millbrook Inn, specially concocted for us by their chef Jean-Philippe. At the moment the group is full, with eleven members, but the waiting list has been cleared! JANE PHILOSOPHY

Our philosophy group is thriving well and we have had some new members join us this term. We are however currently full, but hope to be able to start a second group in the New Year. We meet fortnightly to ponder on such questions as “What is truth, and how does it pertain to modern day politics?”, “Is there a real you?”, “What do we understand by consciousness and the self?” “What do we understand Human Rights to be, and who decides what those rights are?” I do realise that these topics sound a bit daunting when written down on paper, but we have great fun trying to puzzle our way through these challenging topics. We rarely if ever come to any fixed conclusion, but we have decided that is what philosophy is all about. We do utilise the Internet quite a lot to help us with background material, and have found some very useful sites. In particular, the TED talks on philosophy are very accessible and usually the talk is only twenty minutes long, making it something you can sit down to watch whilst having your coffee! Michael Sandel, an American philosopher who models his lectures on the Aristotelian approach, has some fascinating talks to students on “Doing the right thing”, which we have used as a basis for discussion. Having these philosophical discussions is a great way to become more precise and clear in communication of our thoughts to the others in the group. It also allows us to question our own views by listening to others. These big questions about the meaning of life are what people have been pondering throughout the ages, and we can always find a philosopher who will support our point of view. ANNE DOOLEY

2ⁿ� PHILOSOPHY GROUP SEE NEW GROUPS PAGE.

GENTLE GARDEN GROUP

The Garden Appreciation Group has proved to be one of the most popular and this led to the belief that there is scope for an additional offering. And so 'The Gentle Garden Group' is now ready for your pleasure with some less demanding gardens to visit already in the programme for 2017. May 9th we shall visit Delamore Art and Sculpture Garden in - easily accessible and with a unique charm. June 27th is the date for a coach trip to Hestercombe in Somerset where the influence of Gertrude Jekyll and Edward Lutyens are much in evidence. September 26th we shall travel, again by coach, to Bicton Park which In addition to the charms of the garden offers the 'thrill' of a train trip - how gentle is that! Do contact me if you have any questions JOYCE DRUMMOND

Tel. 01548560630 mob. 07511537456 ANSWER TO CRYPTIC CLUE ‘RETIREE’ LOCAL HISTORY

Did you read the September edition of U3A Sources which came with the magazine Third Age Matters? The new format included many articles on a particular theme which in September was Gardening. For the next edition of Sources, we have been invited to submit a short article on Local History. Vivienne Mugford and Chris Barnwell have been members of the group almost from the start. They are both also very committed to Walk and Talk in Kingsbridge (part of the national Walking for Health programme). Below is our contribution, created by Vivienne. It illustrates how discovering our local history can also add interest for participants in the Walk and Talk programme which aims to help people to become healthier and happier. History all around. The Local History Group in Kingsbridge, Devon, is blessed with evidence of the past all around the town. Built on the medieval burgage system, the main (Fore) street was lined with merchant houses, each with a burgage plot behind. The plots, divided by walls, reached down to the mill leats, which ran each side of the town. Passageways within and between each house provided access to the plots behind and many of these still remain as tucked-away treasures. In the group’s early days, each member researched street names – drawn from a hat. This encouraged the use of the excellent Heritage Resource Centre attached to the town’s Cookworthy Museum and revealed some fascinating stories. Members progressed to researching a town trail and then a passageways trail, which are still offered to new members and other groups. The wealth of information compiled for these trails and other local history projects, was the inspiration for reviving the ‘Walking for Health’ 1 mile walk – the entry level walk, designed for referrals from health professionals to encourage people to be more active. Even if the ground covered is familiar, visiting and discussing a point of interest makes each week’s walk feel unique. VIVIEN MUGFORD

BRIDGE

The Bridge Group is continuing to run a duplicate session at West Charleton Village Hall on Friday afternoons, attracting between 30 and 40 people each week. A new innovation this autumn has been a series of seminars on various bridge topics presented by Steve Dooley and George Delafield. These are two-hour sessions at Thurlestone Parish Hall and have attracted between 40 and 50 people to each, so there is obviously a huge demand for improvement by members of the U3A bridge group. Members of the Bridge Group now play regularly at the local bridge clubs at Kingsbridge and Thurlestone, and recently two "graduates" of the U3A group - Nick Massey and Denise Sainsbury, came top in an event at Kingsbridge Regal Bridge Club. We no longer have any new beginners to teach - all the members are now playing regularly at the duplicate sessions. The group is now becoming very self-sufficient, with Mike Reid taking on the duties of Director, and Kate and Mark Jennings, Brian Cavanagh and Chris Adams all taking turns at running the electronic scoring system. Full details of the group's activities and latest results may be seen on our website at… http://www.bridgewebs.com/kingsbridgeestuaryu3a STEVE GROUP MEETING DAY LEADER/CONTACT

ANTIQUES 3rd THURSDAY PM RACHEL 560571 MONTHLY ASTRONOMY

BOOK CLUB 1 3rd THURSDAY PM CHRIS 852160 MONTHLY

BOOK CLUB 2 1st MONDAY PM JAN 559374 MONTHLY BOOK CLUB 3 THURSAY P.M TRICIA 842507 MONTHLY BRIDGE FRIDAY PM WEEKLY STEVE 531252

CLASSICAL MUSIC 4th MONDAY PM ODETTE 560265 MONTHLY

CHURCH VISITS 2nd TUESDAY MONTHLY DAVID 856386

CRYPTIC 1st&3rd THURSDAY AM ANDY 581164 CROSSWORDS FRENCH LANGUAGE THURSDAY AM JANE 852735 INTERMEDIATE FORTNIGHTLY FRENCH BEGINNERS SEE WEBSITE BARBARA 842901

FRENCH CULTURE 1st & 3rd THURSDAY DAWN 844046

FRENCH MONDAY PM ANNA 531562 CONVERSATION

FUN WITH FLOWERS 1st TUESDAY PM HELEN 531191

GARDEN VISITS WENDY 852529 VARIABLE DATES

GEOLOGY 2nd THURSDAY AM CHRIS 531460 MONTHLY GERMAN WEDNESDAY AM JANE 852784 FORTNIGHTLY GROUP MEETING DAY LEADER/CONTACT GREEK MYTHOLOGY 2nd & 4th TUESDAY CAROLYN 843638

ITALIAN FOR BEGINNERS MONDAYS LESLEY 560578 WEEKLY 9.30-11.30 LOCAL HISTORY 3rd WEDNESDAY MARY 857905

LUNCH BUNCH FRIDAY PM EVE 856849 MONTHLY MAH JONG 2ND & 3RD ELIZABETH 580826 MONDAY PAINTING WEDNESDAY PM ANNE 856667 FORTNIGHTLY PHILOSOPHY TUESDAY PM ANNE 531252 FORTNIGHTLY PHILOSOPHY 2 TUESDAY PM MARY 581398

PLAY READING THURSDAY AM EMMA 853900 OR CAROL 562342

POETRY APPRECIATION WEDNESDAY AM NANCY 852087 MONTHLY SCRABBLE 2nd & 4th DEBBIE 844305 THURSDAY SHORT MAT BOWLS SATURDAY AM TONY 531562

SINGING FOR PLEASURE FRIDAY AM TONY 531562

SPANISH TUESDAY AM MICHAEL 852735 WEEKLY SPANISH FOR BEGINNERS SEE WEBSITE JANE

STRETCH AND TONE THURSDAY PM ANTHEA 581399 WEEKLY WALK / PUB LUNCH 4th TUESDAY ANDY 842258 MONTHLY WINE APPRECIATION 4th THURSDAY PM TONY 531562 SINGING FOR PLEASURE

I am into my 10th week as musical leader for this singing group and what a joy it is to be in that position with a group of very nice people who just want to sing and have fun at the same time. We get through a lot of singing every week; we’re a busy group with a lot going on. Christmas is on the horizon, we are practising new and traditional carols at the same time in preparation for the annual U3A Christmas Lunch. One major drawback of our group is the significant lack of male singers. I really don't know why men are so reluctant to come forward to sing. You know science has proved that singing is really good for your health and welfare. So, come on you chaps - you are missing out on some fun and the gratification of singing. At least come and see what it's all about - give Andy, Tony and Bob some support as well as the ladies who are desperate for more men! If you are interested in joining us do come along to the West Charleton Village Hall on Friday at 10am, or call me on 852529 if you have any questions I can help with. PETER BOLT ON FRIDAY 18TH NOVEMBER more than 90 members enjoyed an evening of entertainment at West Charleton Village Hall. There was a varied programme, entertainingly introduced by our Master of Ceremonies, Vernon Taylor. The Singing for Pleasure Group, conducted by Peter Bolt provided a selection of songs, both serious and comic, and were accompanied by the highly accomplished Nicky New. Individual members of the group performed solos, among them Peter Bolt, Andy Coton and Bob Burr, who also accompanied on the guitar. Gill Matthews and Jayne Payne brought a lot of laughter with their rendition of Bring me Sunshine with ukulele and kazoo accompaniment. Chorus and soloists concluded with a cockney chorus with Anthea McWatt and others taking the lead parts. Tony Westlake was " getting married in the morning." Does Anna know? There were amusing poems recited by members of the Poetry Group, two written by members Nicky Summerson and Anna Westlake and two others on the perils of getting older, recited by Ann Sylge and Joan Corrigall. In addition, Helen Curtis recited a Pam Ayres poem about "doing it "more as you get older. "It" turned out to be snoring! The Stay Fit Group presented a hilarious demonstration of exercises as they got increasingly inebriated and Pam Bayly entertained us with Scott Joplin music. The evening would not have been possible without the organisation of Anthea McWatt and a band of helpers who served the supper and cleared up and those who ran the bar. A big thank you to all concerned. JOAN CORRIGALL The audience pronounced the Evening of Entertainment on 18th November, as a success, and this was a result of the hard work of both the performers and the catering staff. I would like to thank Amanda for her professional organisation and delivery of our pasty supper, and all the U3A members who helped her serving etc. and to everyone who provided service with a smile! Thank you also to the U3A committee members who undertook a range of roles; selling/checking tickets, organising the car park,etc. Our Vice Chairman, Vernon Taylor, was an excellent Master of Ceremonies and our Chairman, Carolyn, gave a warm welcome. Finally, a big thank you to all the performers, especially members of my 'Stretch n Tone' group who I cajoled into 'stretching’ on stage while ‘under the influence’ and to members of Singing for Pleasure who worked tirelessly for many weeks to perfect the 'Cockney Chorus' – a new approach to performing for many of them! ANTHEA MCWATT, Evening Organiser. GREEK MYTHOLOGY

This group currently meets on the 2ⁿ� and 4�� Tuesdays of the month, in Carolyn Schofield’s delightful home in Salcombe. Meetings are from 3.30-5 pm. Many will know Carolyn as Chair this year of Kingsbridge U3A. We engage with Greek Mythology through reading the great tragedies of fifth century Athens. These plays typically recount ancient stories of heroes, like Hercules and Theseus, or of those entangled in murderous family histories, like Oedipus and Orestes. But the tragedians shape the myth to fit the circumstances of their times, dealing with war, justice, revenge or love. In turn this reshaping often resonates with issues in our own times. For instance, the play we have just read, The Suppliant Women, is startlingly relevant to such issues as whether ethical reasons justify one nation invading another, and, with the recent election in America in our minds, the speeches on the pros and cons of democracy also expressed precisely what some may feel today: the conflicting perils of dictatorship and demagogy. We are expected to read through the plays in advance and then, taking a part each, we read them together at our meetings. Matters of significance or obscurity are commented upon by our leader and we then discuss whatever comes to mind, ending with tea and biscuits. As a new member this autumn I have found the existing group warm, intelligent and full of interesting insights, and strongly commend it to enquirers. I want to add that for me nothing helps to preserve a (relatively) youthful frame of mind than learning something new, especially at a relaxed pace and in relaxed company! I assume that that is a large part of what U3A is all about. RODNEY BOMFORD

NOVEMBER ENTERTAINMENT EVENING ASTRONOMY

My Experience as a member of the U3A Astronomy Group I have been a member of the U3A local Astronomy Group for some three years. My science background is limited to A level physics in the 1950s, often using pre-war text books with some updating, and one of my other interests is in amateur radio. I have always maintained an interest in astronomy and, long ago, once considered making my own telescope when ex-government optics were plentiful and available. Unfortunately other priorities prevented this happening. I joined the local astronomy group on the understanding that I would have to contribute to talks by the members but that I could decide what to talk about. As one of the least academic members, I chose to specialise in the history of astronomy so that I could use many of my own existing books to begin my research. My early talks were: - The Ancient Astronomers. Split into two talks. Starting with millennia B.C. up to the destruction of the great library at Alexandria. The Second talk taking us up to the time of Newton and Halley. - Another talk covered the early development of the Telescope, coupled with that of Photography. - A more recent talk was on “Spectroscopy”. A challenging talk to research even up to the 1930s. An alternative and better descriptive title would have been “Using the Electromagnetic Highway to make discoveries in the Universe.” I have a very poor memory so I type out my talks on a computer and use the “POWER POINT” application in Microsoft Office to illustrate them. I already had some useful books at home to help me research my early talks and I continue to purchase books of particular interest to me. I also take a monthly astronomy magazine to try and understand the amazing discoveries continuing to be made. We are a small group of members and talks are given in our private homes as our numbers would not justify the expense of hiring a venue. We alternate meeting between houses in Thurlestone, Salcombe and Kingsbridge. Although some members have binoculars and old telescopes which require to be hand and eye driven, we do very little practical observing. All of us are retired and tend to be reluctant to venture out on cold winters evenings; however, we did have an observing session to see the meteor shower this summer! Whilst we welcome new members, who might wish to attend a meeting to sample what we do and meet our members, be aware that most of us are more interested in the theoretical aspects of astronomy. One reason for this is that our present observing equipment produces poor results when compared with the results seen in magazines and from the Internet. Our Group Chairman John Braithwaite (contactable on 01548 560951) would I am sure welcome prospective new members. CHRIS LEDGER KNIGHTSHAYES - SEPTEMBER 2016

What a sight to behold as our group of 23 members went through the gate into the beautiful south facing sloping walled garden built in 1869 at Knightshayes, a National Trust property. We were met by Sam who had been there for 6 years following an apprenticeship at Bicton college. Young, enthusiastic and knowledgeable he outlined the history of this fascinating 4 acre garden previously owned by the Heathcoat Amory family. In its heyday the Victorian kitchen garden, reputedly the largest of its kind in the UK, began to grow exotic fruits and vegetables very successfully as the wealthy owners aspired to outdo competitors. It became fashionable for example to grow and crop strawberries at Christmas time. Then, there were 17 glasshouses and 14 gardeners until WW1 took the young men away. As numbers dwindled the walled garden was turned into a market garden, then as grazing for sheep. Restoration took 25 years before opening in in 2003. Lady Amory, who died in 1970, wanted the high stone walls kept intact and to grow various fruits suited to their aspect such as west facing apples; north facing morello cherries, damsons; and, rhubarb with bananas and others south facing. We learned that crab apples are not only delicious but also good for blood pressure and lowering of cholesterol. On its grid form, with a dipping pond at the centre for watering. it is divided by lime mortar paths around beds containing a vast array of vegetables, cutting flowers, sweet mulberry trees, red and golden raspberries, regent wine grapes and even an enclosed area for chickens and geese. An interesting feature was the slatted gate at the lower corner to allow the cool fog to be released out into the Douglas Fir woodland beyond. There is an ambitious programme with experimental potatoes - oca which grow and produce in the short daylight hours of winter. 130 heritage varieties tomatoes are grown in rotation. Old varieties of peas and beans are being cultivated. We were amazed when we came across yard long achoa beans, resembling a cross between a pepper and a cucumber. Hives are kept just outside the walls although the bees flourish within. Although there were peaches, figs and many more vineries in the 30’s there are plans to reinstate these, along with restoration of the original glasshouses, to replace temporary poly-tunnels. A new tea room is planned and accommodation for trainee gardeners in old tool-sheds and mushroom sheds. At present there are only 2 full timers, 1 part timer, and 40 volunteers but their aim is to promote horticulture as a career and to attract more young apprentices like Sam. We had been very privileged to have such an interesting and informative tour and to round it off with delicious lunch made with home grown vegetables in the old stable block cafe. JENNIE HAYDEN ‘Something a little different’ for the Walking Group

We started off the “term” with something a little different to normal by combining part of the Plymouth Waterfront Walkway and the Devonport Heritage Trail and linking up with Tony Westlake’s Visit Group for lunch in the Devonport Park Pavilion Café.

Our small group of just seven started off from the China House Pub in Sutton Harbour and walked across the bridge to the Mayflower Steps and then via the cobbled back lanes of the Barbican past the Elizabethan House and Gardens, the Citadel, Drake’s Memorial and on to the Hoe. There were great views from Smeaton’s Tower across to the Plymouth Breakwater and Drake’s Island.

Down off the Hoe via the “bullring” we passed the West Hoe Pier harbour (where both Drake and Chichester sailed into after their epic voyages) and carried on around the grand terrace at Rusty Anchor and admired the model naval ships and submarines along the wall.

Rounding West Hoe we entered the old Millbay Docks and passing the Plymouth Life Boat station we visited the old Custom Quay, built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, where in 1912 the surviving crew members of the Titantic were landed. Further along West Hoe Road the wall is decorated with replica and relocated signage echoing the industrial heritage of the docks. We found the old dock quay and derelict buildings in stark contrast to the modern quayside apartments rapidly taking over the old wharf areas and the smart redevelopment of the Millbay Marina.

At the ferry port entrance we discovered the “Wall of Stars” which highlighted the names of some of the Hollywood stars who speeded up their transatlantic crossing between America and London by taking the GWR train from Millbay Docks. We learned that a more valuable cargo shipped from the docks were regular stacks of Gold Bullion on their way to Fort Knox guarded by a single unarmed policeman. How things have changed!

Making our way along Millbay Road we admired the Brittany Ferry awaiting its passengers at the Continental Ferry Port before we arrived at Barrack Place and the site of the Royal Marine Barracks where the first contingent of the Plymouth Division of Royal Marines arrived in 1783. It is sad to think that plans are currently being considered to move the Royal Marines from their historical Plymouth HQ and the land redeveloped for private housing. At Stonehouse Bridge we joined the Heritage Trail and going via Devonport Hill and Mount Wise Crescent made our way to the Devonport Guild Hall and the Column where Tony’s Group had visited earlier in the morning. After a brief look round we walked past the old Devonport Market before meeting up with Tony at St Aubyn’s Church to appreciate the clever redevelopment of the building into a church and library complex and then on to lunch at the Devonport Park Pavilion Café.

We left Tony’s group here and returned via the Scott Monument back to the Stonehouse Bridge passing the 200 year old Cremyll Ferry at Admiral’s Hard and on to the Royal William Yard. From here we took the Ferry back to the Barbican and saw again from the water the landmarks we had walked past that morning. Back at the China House we ended our day with a well-deserved drink.

Our small band of walkers enjoyed a very different day combining a good walk with stunning views, interesting historical sites and waterside trails.

There is still much more to explore on the Plymouth Waterfront Walk going east towards Mount Batten and Jennycliff Bay, so watch this space for the next instalment. ANDY COTON SUB MARINER TO MASTER THATCHER

The final guest speaker of 2016 was Alan Prince, a Master Thatcher from . Having completed 10 years in the Royal Navy – latterly within the confines of Submarines – Alan was done with ‘uniforms’ and craved a life in the open air. He found a government re-training scheme which offered apprenticeships in Thatching. Needing a mentor, he scanned the Yellow Pages. Strangely, much revered Master Thatcher, George Dray of Lustleigh, was about to search for a new apprentice, and so began Alan’s now 40 years in Thatching. He showed us examples of the 3 main reeds used. These are - Wheat Reed, Norfolk Water Reed for the thatch proper and a tough hybrid of rye and wheat which is used for the ridge. The Wheat costs around £850 a ton and approximately 12 tons is required for a full roof. We handled the 3 pointed, hazel spars, used to pin the thatch in place. Alan showed us the main tools of his trade including the specially made ‘Drift’, the ‘boat stone’ to sharpen blades and the Thatcher’s vital ‘Badge of Office’ - Knee Pads!! We saw slides with examples of this ancient craft going back to Saxon times. Examples of Danish, Dutch and Victorian thatches were shown. Questions from the audience were plentiful and many fascinating facts emerged as we learned about this ancient craft, which Alan clearly loves being the only Thatcher to join the Devon Guild of craftsmen.. He has now handed over the reins to his son-in –law Lars, but is a guest lecturer at Plymouth, with 26 post- grad students. Alan was warmly thanked and applauded by us all. DEVONPORT VISIT

Some 17 U3A members arrived at Mutton Cove on a Tuesday in September to undertake part of the Devonport Heritage Trail. Led by Tony we walked past the South Yard, with it's rather neglected gardens, only to see on the opposite side of the road a rather splendid newly built Primary School leading to some neat, also new ,town houses. This contrast of “old and neglected” and “smart new build “was to be a feature of our tour. On to the Devonport Guildhall close to the Egyptian House, both designed by John Foulston. Devonport was, in the 19�� century, a town in it’s own right. The Guildhall building is a fine structure, which has been carefully restored, and now much used for many different functions. It boasts a cafe, a bakery (once a mortuary!!) and next to that a couple of spooky cells. Naturally, there is sizeable function room. The Egyptian House, built in 1823 still has it's original window surrounds and doors complete with Egyptian motifs. It has had various uses over the years. First, as the Plymouth Dock Classical Mathematical School, then as a Library, in 1867 bought by the Grand United Order of Oddfellows. However, after lying empty for a number of years, it now acts as the Ker Street Social Club and is privately owned. Next we visited St Aubyn’s Church which serves both as a place of worship and a well stocked Library. Lunch at the Pavillion in Devonport Park where we rendezvoused with Andy's walking group. Then past the Raglan Army Barracks Entrance, a formidable Arch in much need of some restoration work. Finally, we arrived at the Scott Memorial, with commanding views over the River Tamar towards Cornwall. This truly magnificent statue stands 37ft. high . We then slowly returned to Mutton Cove past a series of newly built swimming pools. What a rich day of history we experienced in fine weather. TRICIA BLAZEBY STONE LANE GARDEN VISIT NOVEMBER 2016

November 1st saw the last visit for the year of the Garden Appreciation Group and it could be argued that Wendy saved the best till last. We went to Stone Lane Gardens, just by Chagford, on a glorious sunny day with the leaves at their coppery best. Stone Lane Gardens has the National Collection of Birch and Alder trees, over 1000 in total. It was started by Kenneth and June Ashburner in 1971 to accommodate the trees and seeds they had brought home from their travels. Initially it was a one acre strip of land but as the collection grew it extended to the 5 acres you see today. It is on a slope and contains many pools and bog gardens, essential as Birch does not tolerate drought. Kenneth planted in a natural way--the trees planted in small groups with the under planting minimalist. There are 80 species of Alder with different provenance, ranging from the Swiss/Alpine shrub with a height of 4/5ft to a species from Iran which can grow at a rate of 6-8 ft a year; this one has lovely deep fissures in the bark. Today the Alder is sometimes used as a biofuel but traditionally it was used for carving spoons. Although there is no spectacular colour, the Alder comes into its own in spring with lovely catkins and flowers. You move from the corridor of Alder to the Birches and here it is that the bark springs to the attention. Again Kenneth has planted in like groups so clumped together are 5 or 6 red barked trees glowing in the sunlight, in contrast to the white/ grey shadowy clumps-- over 190 Birch of different provenance. It made a glorious sight. The Himalayan Birch has dark red bark- it would normally grow in the cloud zone in tropical humid conditions and can grow to 70/80 feet. The trunk, devoid of branches, grows straight up to a small canopy as they are all competing for light. Like many of the red barked ones it has shredding bark (very untidy!) and this has a brilliant use as it will burn even when wet so useful when lighting a fire. The white bark of other birches owes its colour to the presence of betulin in the cambium layer and these tend to grow in the cooler climes. All birches have wonderful stripes on the bark - lenticles. Birch trees only grow in the Northern Hemisphere and have a variety of uses. The waterproof and light bark was ideal for canoes, particularly used in Canada. It also made containers and in the past has been used to make medicines. In fact, they have found recently that the betulinic acid may have a function in fighting cancer. The whole tree can be used. Although we went to see the trees, we were treated to a sculpture trail too. June, Kenneth's wife, was an artist and she decided that it would also make a wonderful venue for an exhibition, so amongst the trees are Herons, Rooks, faces, people, coloured glass - wonderful constructions. Some are here on a permanent basis, some in the yearly exhibition. Paul Bartlett, the garden manager and our host, was delighted that Stone Lane Gardens received scientific status last year. It really is well worth a visit. ANNE SEYMOUR TRIP TO SEATON & BEER JULY 2016

Our July outing to Seaton and Beer began when we all assembled on the Quay at 8.am to be checked off Tony’s list before taking our seats on the coach. Our chatter-filled journey was trouble free and we pulled up in Seaton coach park 15 minutes ahead of schedule. We were delighted to discover that the nearest loo was at Tesco and located in the Costa Coffee section. We put both facilities to good use – what you might call a mutual convenience! From here it was a short walk to our first appointment with Seaton Jurassic. This brand new interactive experience begins in a study within a Victorian mansion. Here we were greeted by a time-travelling hologram ‘guide’. She told us of the history of the area and its geological importance. Our journey took us back 250 million years, to the start of the Mesozoic Period. She pointed out the books on the bookshelves, whose titles denoted the passing of the centuries. When, in1839 the land at Bindon near Seaton, fell away, it became known as the Bindon Slip and was cleverly shown by the horizontal bookshelves, suddenly dropping downwards. “Civilisation exists by geological consent – subject to change without notice”. So wrote William Durrant in the 1800’s. Such an ominous statement, but very relevant in these days of Global change. Fossils and artefacts, examples of flora and fauna were all intriguingly displayed as we moved out of the Study. We followed the continuing timeline, along the book lined passageway as the millions years and various geological ages passed us by. There was so much information to digest as we moved nearer the future. A computer generated 3D underwater kingdom unfolded before us as we entered a ‘submarine’. This allowed us to experience the hostile ocean conditions with its ancient prehistoric sea creatures through the ages. At the touch of a button or the turn of a wheel we could go to any depth and meet them head on as they emerged out of the gloom. A periscope showed us a rock pool and its many inhabitants. Modern technology added realism at every step, as pools of water appeared on the stone floor at our feet, complete with shoals of fish and crustaceans. Gradually we made our way outside, past the raucous, giant seagull which suddenly emerged, screeching above our heads and entered the wildlife and meadow grass gardens with their bird boxes, bee stations and bug hotels. There is much to encourage children and adults alike, to treasure our natural habitat and realize how precarious our existence has always been – perhaps, now more than ever. We crossed a wide pedestrian area to board the Seaton Tramway at the attractive station. Having all piled on to the red No.12 Tram with its open top deck reached by spiral staircase, we set off to travel the 3 miles to Colyton Station, accompanied by Mike our guide, who gave us a humorous and informative commentary on the points of interest. Having rounded Rabbit Corner and negotiated the Loop, we passed the Seaton Wetlands nature reserve with its abundance of wildlife including Roe Deer and Red Ruby Devon cattle. The track follows the River Axe with its lush reed beds housing many varieties of birds. A delightful 25 minutes later we were all settled in Colyton Station Restaurant which Tony had booked for our lunch. The helpful staff served our buffet style meal in super quick time for us to leave, via the souvenir shop and re-board our tram. Those who had been downstairs on the outward journey now found themselves on the upper deck- now in the pouring rain!! Thank goodness for brollies. After thanking Mike and climbing aboard our own coach, we drove the short distance to Beer Caves, the 2000 year old Stone Quarry to the west of Seaton. Here we began an hour long underground tour, amid minimal light. We had been given hard hats and warm poncho-style capes and the need for them became apparent as we progressed through the cold but majestic vaulted stone caves. Here local Quarrymen had worked arduous 14 hour days in primitive conditions with only the light from candles to see by. Beer stone is to be found in our most prestigious buildings including Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle, St. Paul’s Cathedral, London Bridge & Hampton Court as well as 23 Cathedrals and churches. Its unique, fine-grained limestone was discovered by the Romans, who found that it could be sawn and carved in the caves while it was ‘soft’ but hardened when exposed to the air outside. They built their own Villas of it and the ruins of one such, can still be seen in Seaton. The Saxons used pickaxes to quarry it but by Mediaeval times, the countries best Stonemasons demanded Beer Stone to build their finest cathedrals. The industry became very lucrative. The stone was sawn into massive slabs which were lifted by hand operated cranes onto wagons, pulled by horses to barges waiting on Beer beach, then sailed up the Channel to the Thames. This continued for hundreds of years until quarrying ceased in 1920. Beer Caves have housed in their time, secret Church services, Pirates and smugglers’ contraband and latterly, 6 species of Bat, earning it a Site of Special Scientific Interest status. It is an amazing place with a mystique all of its own. We returned to ground level and our patient coach driver. Our final memory of a super day out was that of Tony, dancing about as he realised he had managed to sit on an Ants nest as he collected the money. I’m glad I wasn’t sitting next to him on the coach!! ANITA DUNSTER

Websites: www.seatonjurassic.org www.tram.co.uk www.beerquarrycaves.co.uk GARDEN VISIT Tour of Ashtree Farm with Stevie Rogers

What a beautiful day, what an inspirational garden and what a warm welcome from Stevie, plantswoman supreme, who cares for 70 acres of stunning Devon countryside! We took away many memories of growing for colour, wildlife and biodiversity – a stunning shelter-belt with native trees and shrubs, a wonderful pond and bog garden, funky outdoor seating area with comfy sofas and fire-pit, amazing wooden structures and statues, glorious wild-flower strip, and the planting – well...... as one member commented “a paintbox of a garden”, with every colour in the palette represented in trees, shrubs and flowers. And then there was the wild-life – a myriad birds flitting through, plus chickens, peacocks and the song of the skylark! Add to that the marauding cat on the fruit cage and the delightful Noah, who accompanied us on our tour. Ashtree Farm is now a wedding venue – what a wonderful setting! And when the wedding season is over there may be a chance of an evening visit – it's a magical experience. Watch this space! ANGELA TAYLOR

‘BEES AT BUCKFAST

Following on from a talk given by Clare Densley on bee management at Buckfast Abbey an intrepid group visited Clare at her headquarters in the 'Bee Barn' . We entered a room which resembled a cross between schoolroom and student bed-sit. On closer inspection however there was revealed a graphic alliance with bees - a fascinating indoor/outdoor hive where the comings and goings and the workings of the hive and its occupants were revealed. I was fascinated to see the vast number of publications on the subject of bees BUT I did not see a copy of that admirable and thought provoking book by Sue Monk Kidd 'The Secret Life of Bees' on the shelves! Talk, tea and biscuits followed but what we were all eagerly anticipating was the hands on experience at the hives and so duly 'suited up' - with much hilarity as we were poured, rather like the fluid honey, in to suits of varying hue and size and it was on to the hives clustered in a meadow of grass and wild flowers. For me to actually handle the bees at close quarter was a magical moment. All fear vanished as one watched the young emerge from a cell and immediately become an active member of the hive workforce. The secret a secret no more! Go visit - you will be entranced JOYCE

NOT ALIENS IN THE PICTURES JUST DRESSED IN ‘BEE SUITS’ ! VISIT TO LADY ASTOR'S HOUSE 3 ELLIOT TERRACE PLYMOUTH HOE

OCTOBER 2016 This visit was so popular that two groups went on the same day, one group in the morning and one in the afternoon. Detailed information about Lady Astor, the house and the intricate network of relationships of those in power before, and after the second world war, was provided by our guide who was not only a wealth of information but clearly loved his job! This job also included being the Mace Bearer and personal chauffeur for the current, and previous eighteen, Lord Mayors of Plymouth! Number three Elliot Terrace, is one of a terrace of houses that overlook Plymouth Hoe and the Sound, and it provides a spectacular view of the sea, and to the east Mountbatten to Bovisand Fort, and to the west, Mt Edgcumbe, Plymouth's country park in Cornwall! In the centre of the Sound sits Drake Island, and to the west of the island, the estuary of the Tamar river, Devonport and the naval dockyard. The house was given to the City of Plymouth by Lady Astor, and is the official residence of the Lord Mayor, used by visiting judges and for the reception of important visitors. This has included the King and Queen Mother during the war, and other 'royals'. Pictures charting these visits adorn the walls, and the furnishings of the bedrooms and reception rooms, spread over several floors, are as they were when Lady Astor departed. The adjacent house was once also owned by the Astor's and the connecting doorway is still visible. These days the house is available for weddings and private hire. Lady Astor was a divorcee with a son when she met and married her husband Lord Waldorf. Though both were born in America, Nancy Astor became the first female member of Parliament, a role she took on after her husband had to relinquish his seat in the commons for one in the upper chamber of the Lords, after taking a hereditary title. While Plymouth was so badly damaged in the Blitz, 3 Elliot Terrace survived practically unscathed. The only damage was from an incendiary that came through window and damaged a piece of furniture, the scorch marks still to be seen today. One of the most poignant pieces of displayed memorabilia is a letter from the Queen Mother to Lady Astor following a visit during the Blitz in which she talks of her sadness for those affected by the bombing in Plymouth and her understanding of the affect this is having on Lady Astor. The visit - a wonderful glimpse into a world dominated by elitism, political intrigue and a world war, was both interesting and entertaining, and showed yet again, why belonging to our U3A is so worthwhile! Thank you Tony for arranging this visit. ANTHEA MCWATT ROGER BARRATT Curator of Salcombe Lifeboat Museum

100 years ago on October 27�� 1916, its men folk already depleted, away fighting in the Great War, 15 Salcombe men most of them fisherman, left their homes and families, in an heroic bid to rescue the crew of the Western Lass, which had foundered off Langerstone Point. Her distress flares were spotted at 5.50am by the duty officer at Orestone Watchhouse. A messenger ran to summon the lifeboat coxswain and crew and thus the tragedy unfolded. From South Sands the 35ft William and Emma, and her gallant crew launched at 6.50am. With a force 9 gale and raging sea, conditions were described by survivor, Bill Johnson as being ‘the worst he remembered.’ They crossed the infamous ‘Bar’ headed WSW and were spotted by CO May at Prawle Point at 7.40 hours. All lines to Salcombe being down and it now day light, he could not signal to let the crew know that their services were not required. The ironic fact, that all the crew of the Western Lass had been got ashore by breeches boy, just 2 minutes before the Salcombe crew had launched, has always made this sad story all the more poignant. Having themselves seen the wreck and the seas being too big for them to reach her, they turned for home. By now, crowds, including families of the crew, had gathered on the cliffs above the mouth of the harbour. Angry breakers were battering the little boat. Exhausted, they decided to head for the Bar and so at around 10.30 am, they entered Starehole Bay, put out the drogue brake and took down the sails. Preparing to take down the masts, a huge wave struck their stern and immediately they were tipped end over end. They were a mile from the Bar. No amount of clinging to the upturned boat had any effect as one by one these heroic men succumbed to the power of the ocean. Of 15 men, only 2 lived to tell the tale. They were Bill Johnson and Eddie Distin, washed onto rocks near Limebury Point. They were carried to Rickham Farmhouse and nursed until able to return home. Eleven bodies were recovered between that day and 11�� November, two as far away as Kingsbridge and one on the beach from which they had set out – South Sands. Two men were never found. Such a story, simply recounted by Roger and accompanied by pictures and a ‘no-budget’ film, required no words at its conclusion. If you have the chance to hear Roger’s talk do not miss it, buy the book. Such selflessness must never be forgotten. ANITA MAYA PLAS

Our June guest speaker was the well-known marine ecologist Maya Plass. Her appearances on BBC’s Countryfile and Coast have made her a TV personality but none of that has affected this delightful lady. A self-confessed, latter-day mermaid, she told us that her early fascination with the Seashore began after learning to ‘press’ seaweed. She found early illustrations in Victorian books which were accompanied by lyrical lines which, as she put it ‘endeared rather than educated’ the reader. A childhood spent examining the pond life to be found in the Rivers of her native Kent, led naturally on to University degrees and authorship of books, which include the definitive RSPB Handbook of the Seashore. Her passion for ecological education from an early age has benefitted Primary Schools, including her daughter’s in Aveton Gifford. Did you know that the humble limpet secretes the strongest substance in the world?? Hers is a life dedicated to making the importance of the seas, their inhabitants and the shorelines around our coast, understood by everyone. Maya was a pleasure to look at and a joy to listen to. That she sold out of the stock of books she had brought along and the many questions she answered proved just how much her talk was enjoyed. ANITA

TONY PORTER ‘WHATEVER NEXT’

With laughter echoing again and again around our packed Hall and his great sense of humour, Tony gave us so many episodes throughout his life and seven careers to enjoy. Locally only knowing of him mainly from the renovation of the stunning Art Deco Hotel on Burgh Island and also for his fund-raising Classic Car Rally in Aveton Gifford every August Bank Holiday. We learnt of his experiences through Army, ICI, Biba, initiating London Fashion Week, his PR Company, there was just so much. The 45 minutes of his talk rushed by, we all wanted to know: how about his struggles with the Hotel, more details of his polo days, what about...? Of his very real struggles and worries there was nothing, only in his books for you to you discover it was no easy ride. The happy picture in the Kingsbridge Gazette (plus an excellent article) set the tone. He was presenting his latest book 'WHATEVER NEXT' to our Chairman, Carolyn. 'ROMEO AND JULIET' underground!

The evening of 8th November was cold, windy and very wet! However, as the Coleridge bus sped to Torquay, taking intrepid thespians to the underground world of Kents Cavern all were cheerful and expectant (not literally!) KEU3A was visiting Kents Cave for the second time (last year it was to watch Shakespeare's A Midsummer Nights's Dream), but this year it was the romantic tragedy of Romeo and Juliet – set underground in a labyrinth that was Verona – the bard would have been delighted! The Butterfly Theatre again enthralled us, as an archaeologist guided us through the historic ruins of Verona, sharing the tale of the beautiful love story surrounding the only statue still intact – the famous beauty, Juliet, (portrayed touchingly as a fragile girl who falls in love with the wrong man). Urging us to hum as loudly as possible in order to send our energy to the statue, Juliet suddenly breathes with life. Directing us all along narrow paths through rock dripping with water (often on both the unsuspecting audience and actors) we were woven into a tale of hate versus love, death versus life. The young men of opposing families fought with fervour and Juliet's nurse provided comedy. Candles glowed in the dark, atmospheric singing echoed through the labyrinth as life, love and death were acted out in front of a mesmerised audience. During our journey back through flooded roads with waves of water spraying over out little bus, we marvelled at a small, young company that can bring to life with such energy the intrigue and poetry of Shakespeare's stories. ANTHEA MCWATT To find out more about THE BUTTERFLY THEATRE COMPANY visit their website. www.butterflytheatre.com

IN THE SPRING WE WILL BE ORGANISING A SOCIAL EVENT FOR NEW MEMBERS TO MEET THE COMMITTEE. LOOK OUT FOR DETAILS ON THE WEBSITE

PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO PARKING AVAILABLE AT THE METHODIST CHURCH FOR ANYONE OTHER THAN THE SPEAKER ON THE FRIDAYS OF OUR MEETINGS NEWSLETTER NEXT NEWSLETTER JULY 2017 DEADLINE JUNE 12TH

●WE HOPE YOU’VE ENJOYED THIS 10TH ISSUE OF THE KEU3A’S NEWSLETTER.

●FEEDBACK FROM YOU IS NEEDED. PLEASE TELL EDITORS US WHAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE AND READ. JUDY & LINDA ●THE MAIN INPUT COMES FROM THE MEMBERS, WE NEED MORE WRITE UPS, PICTURES, ANECDOTES, PROFILES, INTERESTING TOPICS etc. ● ● TO ENSURE IT’S FUTURE YOUR CO-OPERATION IS NEEDED

● A BIG THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO REGULARLY SEND CONTRIBUTIONS.

THERE ARE MANY PICTURES FROM GROUPS, UNFORTUNATELY IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO HAVE THEM IN COLOUR ON THE PAGE OF THE ARTICLE. IN ORDER FOR THESE TO BE SHOWN IN FULL COLOUR THEY HAVE TO BE USED ON THE FIRST AND LAST PAGES.

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PRINTING AND COLLATING IS DONE BY - JOAINE ‘SALCOMBE CHURCH BENEFICE’ MEMBERSHIP

The new system ‘BEACON’ is now in place. It has been developed especially for U3A’S incorporating every administrative aspect of running the MEMBERSHIP, FINANCE, GROUPS, EMAILS, (can specify different POLLS, DATA FOR THIRD AGE MATTERS etc.) This can be accessed by specific persons with their own password to a particular area. the access has to be permitted by the Committee. DATA is completely protected, it is not backed up on a personal computer but to BEACON. At a recent Sub Committee we discussed the management of this new system as recommended by U3A.

MANAGER AND ADMINISTRATOR OF SYSTEM - JUDY TYLER The following have access to various ROLES FINANCE and TREASURER LINDA COTON MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY LIZ PLAYLE CIRCULATION SECRETARY JACKIE STACEY Judy will liaise with any Group Leader who would benefit from viewing a list of current and lapsed members and their contact details, and if necessary contact them via BEACON’S EMAIL

Judy has been Membership Secretary since 2011 when we started KEU3A; beginning with less than 50 members and now having nearly 450. She is gradually handing the reins of Membership to LIZ PLAYLE who will then take over after the AGM. TEL. 853242 MOB. 07859391791 EMAIL. - [email protected] RENEWALS ARE DUE ON APRIL 1ST 2017 - IF YOU HAVE NOT RENEWED BY MAY 1ST, IT WILL BE ASSUMED YOU HAVE RESIGNED PLEASE SEND ALL CHEQUES TO ● LIZ PLAYLE 17 HURRELL RD. KINGSBRIGE . TQ7 1ER ● YOU CAN ALSO PAY BY BACS TO OUR BANK ACCOUNT ● SORT CODE 30-94-72 A/C NO 19545860 ● RENEWAL NOTICES WILL BE SENT VIA EMAIL IN MARCH AND BY LETTER TO NON EMAILERS Membership cards will be issued via the new system.(Some members may notice their number has changed; there was an error in the initial set up between the old manual numbers and the systems’s automatic numbering). If paying via BACS please advise Liz. that you have done so. Judy Tyler As one who’s not a technophile, I’m filled with admiration For those who understand such ‘stuff’ It seems like half the nation!

So when our aging electronics, proved short of the mark And our projection-type equipment Could be traced back to the ‘ark’ - Committee member Vernon, took on the daunting deed To do away with all the ‘old’- and bring us up to speed!

NOW, our visual equipment (provided for each speaker) Plus the ‘short-throw’ projector, look altogether sleeker. No longer ‘tripping hazards’ snake beneath the tables, NOW, we have new microphones, which don’t need any cables!

Oh! Such a transformation, we’ve never been so smart. Technically, we’re now ‘A1’ – real ‘State of the Art’ Vernon’s trusty sidekick, Dave, keeps all in his store And here he is transporting it Arriving at the door!!! LOCAL HISTORY IN KINGSBRIDGE

PLANTER SPONSORED BY KEU3A BY EGRET BED

FULL BRIDGE TABLES AT WEST CHARLETON

A FULL HOUSE AT THURLESTONE BRIDGE SEMINAR