Easy Wheelers

Cycle Group Ride to Loughborough Two-Day Adventure

On Sunday, 14th September, eleven enthusiastic riders from the Cycle Group embarked on an exciting two-day cycling adventure to Loughborough. Setting off in fine spirits on Sunday, the group covered a total distance of 46 miles, enjoying pleasant but drizzly weather and lively conversation along the way. The route offered a delightful mix of countryside, canal paths, picturesque villages, and two well-earned refreshment stops, making the journey both enjoyable and memorable for all involved.

Upon arrival in Loughborough, we checked into the Travelodge for a well-deserved rest. After freshening up, everyone gathered for an evening meal at Wetherspoons, where good value food, drink and plenty of camaraderie were shared.

The following morning, plans for breakfast at the much-anticipated Tiffany’s were dashed when the group discovered it was closed. Undeterred, we headed back to Wetherspoons, to enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off for the return journey.

We were greeted with a yellow warning of wind; however we pressed on battling against the elements and tree debris on a shorter return route of 32 miles.

The two-day ride was a great success, and we thank John Saunders and Brian Carr for all their preparation and route selection.

Jim Spray – Cycle Group Leader

Science Group

Visit to Bestwood Country Park 19th September, 2025

Water Rockets and Polystyrene Aeroplanes: A Day of Experimentation

The science group met at Bestwood Country Park for a hands-on exploration of flight and propulsion. A focus of the meeting was launching water rockets, an activity that proved both challenging and entertaining. Despite our enthusiasm and numerous attempts to launch even with the expertise of John Tedstone and John Berril we encountered a staggering 95% failure rate with water rocket launches.

They either failed to lift off or experienced technical difficulties, usually due to insufficient air pressure, this providing plenty of opportunities for laughter among the spectators.

In contrast, the session on polystyrene aeroplane flying was notably more successful. Members enjoyed constructing and testing their lightweight planes.

 Some of them soared impressively across the open spaces of the park, others experienced an early descent.

 Our efforts highlighted the unpredictable nature of scientific experimentation.  Overall, it was a memorable day, combining fun, frustration, and the thrill of discovery in a rural outdoor setting.

Our next meeting is on Friday 17th October at JGC 10am to 11.45am

We have a presentation from group member Dr Jolanta Adamczewska who spent many years specialising in the field of lubricants.

Most of us know they are substances designed to reduce friction between surfaces in mutual contact, which ultimately minimises heat generation and wear.

We will learn that they have many other uses and there are different types both natural and synthetic.

Following the break we have an activity currently in development.

David Rose

Christmas Lunch 2025

U3a Christmas Lunch 2025

The Social Sub Committee are delighted to announce this year’s u3a Christmas Lunch, as always, a wonderful opportunity for members to get together and celebrate the festive season.

John Godber Centre – Monday, 1st December

Time: Doors Open 11.30am

The meal is served from 12.15pm

Professional entertainment from 2.30pm to 4.00pm

            Price: £21.00 per person

Menu Choice

The menu will include a main course option of chicken or beef

There is also a jacket potato with salad and ham or cheese (which is a veggie option)

Dessert

Biscoff Cheesecake, Lemon Meringue or cheese and biscuits.

Followed by tea/coffee and mince pies (if you have room….)

Numbers are limited and the tickets will be on sale at the October and November monthly meetings.

Payment by cash or preferably credit card

It really helps if you have already decided your meal and dessert preference and can advise of any food intolerances when booking.