History Group

Our April meeting was a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum by Vallences Coach. Vallences give us an excellent service, from the earlier booking point of view, and the journey.  The drivers are always polite, helpful and on this journey we were treated to some music I think we all enjoyed.  

The Arboretum is always worth another visit.  This time as well as the train with the wonderful guided tour and commentary – talks were offered such as ‘Shot at Dawn’ explaining why this happened.  

At the next ‘Main Meeting’ at John Godber Centre we will be taking names and money (bring your cards if possible) for the next visit on 17th June to Matlock Bath and Masson Mill Museum. 

Our next indoor meeting at Central Methodist Church which will begin at 2pm is on 20th May.  It is a talk from David Speed who will tell us all about ‘Beauvale Priory – Between Two Worlds’.

 Bye for now,  Maureen

Not So Grumpy Old Men

April saw 12 Not So Grumpy Old Men return to channel their inner Botham in an indoor cricket contest.

The rules of engagement were explained (more than once!) to the players, led by Team Captains Ian Murray and Dave Kay. Dave’s team batted first, each player facing the onslaught of 2 overs of exceptional bowling where accuracy, both of length and width, seemed to be unimportant. As wickets started to fall, one player scored 4’s and 6’s and another fell into his own wicket! Ian’s team took to the crease, and one player needed a runner which led to confusion and hilarity when 2 batsmen ended up in the same place.

With the rules now at least partially understood, the teams squared up for a second game. Amongst cries of “‘ow is ‘e” and “leg before wicket” the honours ended even with both captains claiming a game.

Fortunately for the standing of international cricket there were no scouts from the England selectors to identify the raw talent on display. Thanks to John Beharall for organising.

Strollers

Oldmoor Wood Strelley was the venue for our latest stroll to view the Bluebells and we were not disappointed, they were beautiful in the sunshine.

The wood is managed by the  Woodland Trust and is well maintained and open to all. Coffee afterwards at the Mulberry Tree, a very busy coffee shop but well worth a visit.

Easy Walkers

A walk over Bennerley Viaduct was enjoyed by the Easy Walkers Group in bright sunshine.

It is hoped that by the middle of the year the visitors centre and café will be open so we will be returning to check it out again no doubt.

It’s a pleasant three mile walk with rewarding views over the Erewash valley. Well worth a visit.

Singalonga

Due to other U3A events we were a smaller  group singing along to songs vaguely related to hobbies and occupations. We are still finding new songs and welcome any suggestions.

The meeting in May will be led by Dave and Christine Vincent, the theme being “Doo -Wop” songs.

All are welcome, details of the venue are on the website.