University of the Third Age, Chester

Photos and reports are in chronological order, the most recent at the top.

Trip to Llanddwyn Island by Geology Group, 20 September 2010

13 members of the Chester U3A Geology Group, led by Terry Clarke, travelled to Anglesey to explore the geology of Newborough Forest and Llanddwyn Island. In the Forest, a new Geology Trail is being set up, and the group, with the help of the Newborough Forest Manager, examined the main features of the as yet undocumented new Trail.

After a picnic lunch sitting in warm sunshine on 'pillow lavas' on the beach, the group moved on to clamber amongst the rocks around the coast of Llanddwyn Island, shown recently on the BBC's 'Coast' programme. Some of the most striking geological features were seen at their best due to the prevailing low tide conditions, and excellent cups of tea and scones at a local café rounded off a very enjoyable and informative day.

Click here for photos taken during the visit.

Geology Group discusses the 'Properties and Identification of Minerals', 27 April 2010

The Geology Group met at Mollington Village Hall on 27th April 2010 for a discussion about minerals. Using samples, Bob discussed various aspects of mineral identification through lustre, shape, colour, streak and specific gravity (density) which were then highlighted by a practical demonstration. Bob was followed by Barbara who discussed mineral 'hardness' with the group. The meeting ended with 'hands-on' identification of samples. Click here for a few photos of the meeting.

Geology Group visits Clore Natural History Centre, 13 October 2009

The Geology Group visited the Clore Natural History Centre at the Liverpool World Museum on 13th October 2009 for a 'Rock & Mineral Identification Workshop'. The Workshop was run by senior staff of the Geology Section, who gave an introduction on their work. A presentation on the identification of rocks by Thin Section Microscopy was followed by a hands-on session on identification of rocks and minerals using a checklist approach, developed by the staff. This was not as straightforward as some members of the Group were expecting! It was, however, informative, educational, challenging and enjoyable, and we all look forward to using the approach in the field!

Field trip to the Manifold Valley (Derbyshire), 11 September 2007

Click here for photos taken during the field trip.

Meeting on the 'Composition of rocks', 28 August 2007

The meeting comprised a presentation by Bob Fletcher on 'The composition of rocks', followed by a display of members' holiday rocks. Click here to see a few photos taken during the meeting.