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Newtown University of Third Age

email: mail@newtownu3a.co.uk
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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.

french conversation
Walking group stop to admire the view
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 livestockSmithfield market 1855 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
Full Circle painting
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 Foulkechinese fishing netss 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: the battles of  crimean war soldiers
Alma,  Balaclava, Inkerman and Sebastopol'  by Alma Conboy

A fascinating talk about some of the lesser publicised facts of the battles of the Crimean War.
1st February 'The Red Kites of Wales' by Tony Crossred kite
The meeting was told of the success of the breeding program which reversed the worrying decline in the species.  Red kite are now found as far as France. 
7th March 'Gregynog: Future Developments' by Steve Griffithsgregynog
Exciting plans for reinstating the gardens to an earleir state were revealed.  Much work has already been undertaken with flower beds, clearing the walled garden and lots of planting.  However, we were then told that funding has been cut and the project is under threat.   Gregynog needs people to take action to safeguard this treasure for the future.
4th April 'The Credit Union' by Rina Clarkepenarth weir
The Robert Owen Credit Union serves Montgomeryshire and is the only rural branch in the country.  It acts as a local bank but also helps educate members into the value of saving.

Rina also gave us an insight into the developments that are taking place at the Penarth Weir hydroelectric scheme - another community project.
2nd May AGM followed by an interesting talk by Bridget Farrington who told us about the 'Drive On' scheme. Mature drivers  have an hour's free assessment with a qualified driving instructor to help them drive safely. This was followed by presentations by various members .
6th June 'Images: The Sequel' by Graham Harris
Acton Scott Working Farm Visit - 27 June 2012acton scott farm

Cost is £16 for members and £18 for their guests.  There is a choice of cafe or picnic area.  Organiser Anne Allan.




Hampton Court Castle and Gardens - 4th July
hampton court castle

Cost £20.  Coach leaves Newtown 9.30am  departs 4pm.  Organisers Maurice and Margaret Hayling.


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
Stitch Craft
1st and 4th Friday 10.15 - 12pm
Leader - Emma Fawcett-Wood 01686 620656
Meet at Mill Close community hall
Walking
As & when - am.pm
Leader - Ruth
      Contact: Graham Harris                                                      Links: Welshpool U3A      The Virtual U3A (vU3a)  design: Moyra Aston