Newtown University of Third Age

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Universities of Third Age (U3As) are self-help, self-managed lifelong learning co-operatives for older people no longer in full time work. It provides opportunities for members to share learning experiences in a wide range of interest groups and to pursue learning not for qualifications, but for fun.

Members of the Luncheon Group enjoying pre-lunch drinks

Meetings held:
First Wednesday of month 10 - 12 am September to June

Venue:
Plas Dolerw, Milford Road
Newtown, Powys,
SY16 2EH

	2011 - 2012 Program of Events
2011 7th September	'The Drovers of Wales: History and Social Impact' by Mike Davies The Welsh drovers took livestock from all over Wales into England over many centuries. Cattle bought in the local Welsh markets, such as in Newtown, would be driven to London or Kent and sold at a profit. Their need to avoid carrying large amounts of cash led to the establishment of the first independent bank in Wales. They were involved in the bitter Rebecca Riots in the 1840’s which resulted in improvements in the Turnpike Trust, the Poor Laws and the operation of the workhouses in Wales.
5th October	'Looking for a Brighter Sky' by Sonja Benskin Mesher RCA Artist, poet, writer and creater, Sonja starts from early morning recording all the little things in life through word and colour. She is involved in various projects and exhibitions around the world. Ever the optomist she always finds 'a brighter sky'.
2nd November	'Highlights of Southern India' Roger Foulkes gave us an interesting, well illustrated talk about his visit to the region. From the friendly people, temples with elaborate carvings, sacred cows, elephants, godesses, boat trips, chinese fishing nets, sights and sounds. A thoroughly enjoyable mornings entertainment.
7th December	Social event with buffet
2012 4th January	'The Crimean War' by Alma Conboy
1st February	'The Red Kites of Wales' by Tony Cross
7th March	'Gregynog: Future Developments' by Steve Griffiths
4th April	'The Credit Union' by Rina Clarke
2nd May	AGM followed by presentations by Members Choice
6th June	'Images: The Sequel' by Graham Harris
Chester Visit On 22 June, 21 members visited the historic city of Chester. The weather did not dampen our spirits or enthusiasm (we had only a couple of rain showers) to explore Chester's 2000 years of action-packed history. The Rows were visited - the city's unique, 700 year old, two-tier shopping galleries; the Cheshire Military Museum and Grosvenor Museum, Chester Catherdral - 1000 years of history reflected in magnificent architecture and intricate 14th century woodcarvings (plus lunch in the Monk's Refectory). Some of the group took an ipen-top bus for the Heritage Tour to see the city sights or a cruise on the River Dee, whilst others wandered through the traffic-free city centre, window-shopping. All too soon it was time to board our coach and leave the bustling city behind - we'll be back! Trips for 2011 Acton Scott Farm, Shropshire

Botany
As & when - am
Leader - Colin

Canasta
As & When - pm
Leader - Pat

Creative Writing
4th Wednesday - pm
Leader - Graham

Conversational French
4th Thursday - am
Leader- Alma

Discoveries & Inventions
As & When - am
Leader - Nick

Discussion
As & When - am
Leader - Maurice

Gardening
2nd Monday - am
Leaders - Paula & Mike

Luncheon Club
3rd Wednesday
Leader - Denise

Painting
2nd Thursday - am
Leader - Eddie

Poetry Appreciation
2nd Wednesday- am
Leader - Mike A

Rummicub
As and when - pm
Leader - Mike A

Slide & Film Presentation
Last Wednes- pm
Leader - Graham

Walking
As & when - am.pm
Leader - Ruth

Contact: Graham Harris Links: Welshpool U3A The Virtual U3A (vU3a) design: Moyra Aston