STOP PRESS — 'Waterways Event' on 25th May 2012 — it's going to be sunny!
Why not enjoy the sunny weather and join us at the Boat Museum. There are still places left on some of the talks and there will be a huge range of things to do and see for only £10, including Arty things, Crafty things, Historic things, Technical things, Films, Exhibitions and Talks!
Six new Study & Interest Groups!
Six new Study & Interest Groups have been started over the last few weeks, namely Cycling for Softies, Film History, French Improvers, Knitting, Painting 2 and Psychology 2. A full list of all our Groups can be found here.
U3A Advice Sheet 10 - Useful Document for Group Co-ordinators
U3A's Advice Sheet 10 summarises the licences provided by The Third Age Trust to all U3As. The Copyright Licensing Agency (CLA) licence allows U3As to make multiple photocopies from books, journals or magazines, and the PPL licence gives U3As permission to play recorded music in public. Multiple copies of maps, charts, newspapers or printed sheet music are not allowed, and there is no blanket licence arrangement with film copyright holders or organisations to allow U3As to play DVDs or videos. Interest groups are usually covered by an exemption in the Copyright Law which allows the use of DVDs or videos for educational purposes.
Christmas Lunch photos
Chester Golf Club on 8th December.
The Cherry Orchard on 15th December.
Walk4life, a useful website for walking groups!
The Walk4life website is funded by the Department for Health and the BIG Lottery Fund, and aims to help as many people as possible to enjoy walking. The site provides information on thousands of walks in the UK, including many walks, ranging from easy to challenging, in Cheshire, North Wales and the Peak District. A useful resource for Chester U3A's many walking groups!
Successful Group Fair, 10th November 2011
A highly successful Group Fair was held in St Columba's Church Hall on Thursday 10th November. Representatives of all Chester U3A's groups were there to tell prospective members about their groups' activities. Many thanks to Sheila Young for organising the Fair and to group co-ordinators for creating such eye-catching displays.
Click here to see some of Geoff's excellent photos.
Wednesday Walkers have bracing day on Conwy Mountain
The Wednesday Walking Group's walk on 12th October started at Conwy, then climbed Conwy Mountain, dropped down to Sychnant Pass, looped round through Llechwedd and Groesfford, and then headed back to Conwy. The weather was overcast and bracing, but at least it was dry - very different from the hot balmy conditions experienced by those who checked out the route two weeks earlier.
Information for Group Co-ordinators
There's a new page, primarily for the use of Group Co-ordinators, on this website. Click here to find links to the Group Co-ordinators Handbook and to other useful documents.
To access this page in the future hover over 'Study & Interest Groups' on the navigation bar, then click 'Group Co-ordinators'.
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Tuesday Walkers at Dunham on the Hill
On Tuesday 18th October, Brian Holyoak led a party of 10 Tuesday Walkers on a six mile walk from Dunham on the Hill. The weather was reasonably kind - only a couple of showers. The walk ended with a lunch at The Plum Tree where we were joined by two of our 'resting' members.
Thanks to Brian for a good day and to Tim for the photos.
Visit by the Industrial Heritage Group to Astley Green Colliery Museum, Friday 23rd September 2011
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We had an excellent guided tour of the site which is dominated by the headgear. It is the last surviving colliery of the South Lancashire Coalfield and was saved because of the unique steam winding engine. The pit opened in 1908 and reached a depth of ½mile. The bitumen coal was transported via the nearby Bridgewater Canal. The mine closed in 1970. We handled the equipment that the miners carried which, in total, was very heavy and we saw the large machinery and colliery locomotives.These are just the highlights of a most interesting visit. (Report by Margaret Hodson, group co-ordinator.)
Photos taken by Margaret Hodson. Click on a thumbnail to get a bigger image.
Friday Walkers have a bracing holiday in Leyburn, 11-16 September 2011
The arrival of 10 members of the Friday Walking Group in Leyburn, on the eastern edge of the Yorkshire Dales, coincided with the arrival of the remnants of Hurricane Katia, so the walking over the first couple of days was restricted to low levels, mainly in Wensleydale, and was quite bracing. Later in the week, when the wind had dropped, it was possible to climb higher in beautiful sunny conditions, with wonderful views of Arkengarthdale and Swaledale. Accommodation was in Eastfield Lodge, Collett's only 'Walking Lodge' in the UK, where the group was looked after exceptionally well by Dave and Pol. Many thanks to Phil and Gaye for organising the holiday.
Thursday Strollers visit to Coniston, 14-17 June 2011 (report by Di George)
Travelling up we all unknowingly stopped at the same stop for a coffee before going on into the lakes which was great so we all went off in convoy and met at the planned stop for the walk up and around Tarn Hows, which was very beautiful and obviously a very popular beauty spot. We did find out however a better way to get there which would have cut out a rather long walk up hill at the beginning. However, it was nice to get out of the car and stretch our legs.
After the walk, we travelled on for about half an hour to Coniston and the Hotel. We were much releived that we had managed to get 11 people into 3 cars as their parking spot only took 4 cars. However, this all worked out OK, but would not do if we went there again with more people. The hotel owners, Peter and Beverley, made us very welcome, the food was very good although some had a little trouble squeezing into their showers! Is there a message here?
The next morning, it was raining whilst we had breakfast, so we decided to abandon the idea of a trip on Coniston Water, and walk along the lakeside to Torver where we sat in the sun outside a pub for a welcome cup of coffee/tea. Here we said goodbye to Noreen and Eddie who caught a bus back to Coniston. We carried on for another hour back towards the lake and sat on the Torver Jetty and ate our packed lunch, which included sandwhiches, fruit, chocolate, crisps and salad for those who wished. Energised we continued back along the lakeside back to Coniston.
After a lovely evening meal, everyone decided to do their own thing. The oldie goldies to relax and watch TV or read and the younger ones to go and investigate the village.
The next day again started with rain, but again, once we set off, the sun came out and there was a little cloud which made it perfect for walking. We drove off to Ambleside and parked in the town, and soon picked up the route for the Loughrigg Terrace. Again, as in yesterdays walk, John (Mavis's husband) was a great help with his map reading skills, as we ladies were very much thankful for later on. The information we had from the internet specified 3 to 4 miles but in the end it turned out to be 8 miles. However, before we realised this, we enjoyed our lunch at what must be one of the most beautiful views in the lakes. We looked out over Elterwater and Windermere, and the river Brathay below. Absolutely stunning! Onwards, it was soon obvious that the walk was longer than anticipated, and luckily John was able to pinpoint a hotel which we ladies could make for and which was on the way back to Coniston. So we parted ways, the men continued another 2 miles, which I gather was very hard, whilst we ladies enjoyed a very welcome cup of tea. A fantastic day. I think this walk could be done again by walking the first half and then following a lower route back the way we started. This would be well worth doing again.
The last evening we were invited to make up two teams for a quiz night in the bar. Unfortunately for the locals one of our teams won!
For our first adventure of this kind it was a great success, and I would like again to put on record my thanks firstly to Roy and Shirley who first came to me with information for walks in the Lakes. Secondly to Noreen who came up trumps with the hotel, as we were having trouble finding somewhere. Thirdly to Shirley again for her enthusiasm and work she put in finding walks and for being so supportive. And lastly to everyone for just joining in.
Friday Walkers have an eventful walk on the White Peak, 5th August 2011
The Friday Walking Group set off from the Cat & Fiddle to do a circular walk via Three Shires Head, Knotbury and Axe Edge Moor. All went to plan until just after Knotbury in a fairly remote location, when Sue went over on her ankle and was unable to even hobble. A telephone call to the Emergency Services led to a startling succession of emergency vehicles to deal with Sue's problem. First on the scene was a Community First Responder, followed by a Community Paramedic from Leek. Next to arrive was an East Midlanda Air Ambulance emergency helicopter from Tatenhill Airport (near Burton upon Trent), and finally an ambulance from Macclesfield. Sue's leg was strapped up and she was whisked away to Macclesfield A&E, where her ankle was X-rayed and diagnosed to be a bad sprain. We are very grateful to the emergency personnel who helped us - we were most impressed by their efficiency and professionalism. Click here for a few photos taken by Nicolette during the walk and the 'rescue'. Thanks, Jenny, for an eventful walk!
Birdwatching 1 at the seaside! Report by Tim Carley.
On 1st August Birdwatching 1 went to the seaside! In the morning, we visited Marshside RSPB Reserve on the coast road just north of Southport. Although there was not much water in the pools - indeed some of them were bone-dry - we did have a successful days birding. And indeed it was worth the journey to see the Avocets (see pictures). Then, after an excellent lunch in Churchtown, we went to Meresands Reserve which is managed by Lancashire Wildlife Trust. There was more water here (see pictures), though many of the gulls and ducks were standing rather than floating in the water. A few more 'ticks' were added to the list. The best in the afternoon? Personal choice was a beautiful Common Tern. Thanks to Nicolette for the photos.
Visit to Anglesey by Bird Watchibg Group
Bird Watching 1 had brilliant day out to Anglesey on Monday 4th July. This trip had been postponed because of bad weather and we reaped the rewards. It was gloriously sunny and warm, with very little wind, so conditions were ideal. South Stack, our first stop, was also looking pretty, with a great range of flowers to divert us, as well as plenty of birds. We were delighted to see there were still kittiwake chicks in their nests. Further round towards the lighthouse we had good views of puffins, seeing some fly in off the sea as well as strutting their stuff on a grassy ledge. After lunch we went on to the tern colony at Cemlyn Bay. There we had excellent views of several species of tern - we could smell them too, the wind was definitely in the wrong direction! Terns flew over us from the bay at very close quarters with fish in their beaks to feed their young.
New Industrial Heritage Group to meet on 20th July
Friday Walkers off to Moel Eilio, Snowdonia (1st July 2011)
The Friday Walking Group spent a glorious day in Snowdonia on 1st July. Starting in Llanberis, the route ascended Moel Eilio, then followed the ridge over Foel Gron and Foel Goch before looping back to Llanberis. The views were stunning in all directions - north east to the Glyders and Tryfan, south east to Snowdon, and south to the Nantile Ridge. The walk finished with the usual mandatory café stop, this time in the excellent Pete's Eats in Llanberis. Thanks, Paul, for a memorable walk.
Visit to see Tissington Well Dressings
A group of Chester U3A members headed off to see the Tissington Well Dressings on 6th June. Click here to see Muriel Teece's account of the visit, and here to find out more about the practice of well dressing, involving a succession of different villages in the Peak District dressing their wells between the end of May and early September.
Greetings cards for sale at July meetings
The Craft Group will have a sales table at our meetings in St Columba's Church Hall on Tuesday 5th July and Thursday 14th July, and will be selling its usual range of greeting cards for all occasions. The Group, which meets twice a month, has room for a few more members - please contact Myra Bowyer, the group co-ordinator, if you are interested (01244-371779).
Useful website for our Walking Groups?
The recently formed 'Wednesday Walking Group' is the seventh walking group in Chester U3A, and this number may rise to eight if the proposed Sunday Walking Group for dog walkers gets off the ground! The Happy Hikers website is unlikely to be of much interest to those who favour short local walks, but might be worth a visit by those who walk longer distances and are willing to travel. Many of the featured walks are in the Yorkshire Dales, which is a bit far for a day trip, but the walks in the Peak District are more accessible.
Photography Group Meeting - Mollington 12th May 2011
The Photography Group met on 12th May when members discussed their photos on the theme of sky and/or clouds, some of which are shown here.
New Community Groups
These groups are intended for those of you who want to get to know your U3A neighbours and meet for coffee, to discuss the U3A, share transport, accompany each other on social occasions etc - to do whatever your group decides it needs. Five Community Group areas with the following postcodes have been set up :
- CH66 2 - Great Sutton
- CH3 5 - Boughton Heath
- CH1 6 - Saughall
- CH2 1 - Upton Area
- CH4 7 - Westminster Park
Proposed Sunday Walking Group
Veronica Moroney writes: 'There may be others like me who like to relax on a Sunday by walking some gentle hills and forest trails but do not want to do very long walks, or may be dog owners and therefore barred from most other walking groups. I am proposing to start such a group - the frequency, length of the walks and the dog numbers to be decided at an initial meeting at my place. You don't have to have a dog but tolerance of our canine friends would be a requisite. If you are interested please call me on 01244-679686, leaving your name and phone number. I look forward to hearing from you.'
Industrial Heritage Group visits Alderley Edge, 20th May 2011
On Friday 20th May 2011 the Industrial Heritage Group travelled to Alderley Edge. Before lunch, the Group enjoyed a walk (ably led by Judy Wilson) visiting the surface features of the copper mining activities carried out there since Roman times. In the afternoon, the Group went on to Nether Alderley Mill where they were given a fascinating guided tour by two members of the 15th century Mill's National Trust management team. Some of the machinery of the Mill driven by three waterwheels running in series was demonstrated. The Mill is to be closed temporarily to the public shortly to allow much needed renovation work to be carried out, and it is expected to be reopened by the end of the year.
Several members of the Group will be returning to Alderley Edge in September for an underground tour of sections of the copper mines, to be led by members of the Derbyshire Caving Club who maintain the mines.
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Wednesday Walking Group off to the Clwyd Hills
The new Wednesday Walking Group headed to the Clwyd Hills in wonderful weather on 27th April. Tim's 12km route included the summits of Penycloddiau and Moel Arthur, with views of Snowdon and the Arans. Don't be misled by the photo - the walk was more energetic than it looks! Please contact Tim Carley (01244-680460) if you're interested in joining this new group.
Holiday in Lake District for Strolling and Ambling Groups
Strolling and Ambling group members enjoyed a short holiday at Monk Coniston, Cumbria from 15th to 18th April 2011, led Judith Hobbs. The weather was excellent and the group enjoyed many walks over varied terrain, including a visit to Brantwood, the former home of the John Ruskin. Click here for a few photos. One photo shows a fallen tree 'spiked' with coins. We hasten to add that none were removed!
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Collecting Group learns about Pie Funnels at Boughton Hall, 11th April 2011
The Chester U3A Collecting Group met recently to learn more about this fine collection of Pie Funnels and their history. This group has recently started meeting at Boughton Hall, Chester. New members welcome. Please ring Mary Sherman (01244-344117) if interested.
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First walk of the year in Snowdonia for Friday Walkers
18 members of the Friday Walking Group met at the Sychnant Pass car park, 2km to the west of Conwy, on 1st April, and enjoyed a scenic walk in bright windy conditions. The walk headed west across open moorland, traversed the Jubilee Terrace round Foel Lus (above Penmaenmawr), then looped round to return to the start. Many thanks to Pat for planning and leading the walk.
Birdwatching Group's surprise sighting of Waxwings!
On Monday 7th March members of Birdwatching 1 were assembling in Halfords car park for their trip to Hoylake when, to great surprise, a flock of waxwings were seen in the trees. These winter visitors had not been seen in the flesh before by many of the group and so their departure was delayed whilst binoculars, scopes and a camera were deployed! Click here for photos of the waxwings and a photo of the group later in the day at Hoylake.
Birdwatching Group off to Pennington Flashes, 7th February 2011
Birdwatching1 had a wild trip to Pennington Flashes near Wigan on Monday 7th February - wild because it was incredibly windy. But we still saw over 35 species of birds - at the sheltered woodland hide we had good views of many different birds feeding. These photos show Long Tailed Tits on the fat balls, a pair of Bull Finches and a male Bull Finch enjoying the seeds on one of the tables. Thanks to Nicolette for the photos, which were taken by a pocket digital camera at the limit of its magnification.
Friday Walkers brave slippery conditions during first walk of 2011
Are they mad? No less than twelve Friday Walkers braved the slippery roads and snowy paths to enjoy a bracing walk over Burwardsley, Bickerton and Bulkeley Hills. Nobody fell, nobody crashed, and the toasted teacakes (and other delights) were most welcome as they finished the walk at The Candle Factory. Thanks to Stephen for a great walk. Thanks to Tim and Nicolette for these photos.
Photography Group's photos of Beeston/Peckforton and of subjects beginning with 'W'
Click here for some of the photos that were displayed at the Photography Group's meeting on 18th November 2010. Six were taken during a trip to Beeston and Peckforton, and three relate to a 'letter W' theme.
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Interesting visit to Manchester, 24th November
Many thanks to Mary Vives, who escorted a group of about 30 members of Chester U3A to Manchester. We visited the Jewish Synagogue Museum and the BBC studios. The museum was fascinating and gave us great insight into Jewish religion, customs and traditions. The tour of the BBC studios included the BBC Philharmonic studio, the special recording room for radio drama, and the North West Tonight studio (one member was allowed to sit in Gordon Burns chair!). Later, Muriel Teece gave a terrific presentation of the weather forecast - she was a real pro and our guide said it was the best he had heard! Click here for Muriel's account of the visit.
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Birdwatching Group braves freezing conditions!
Monday 6th December, and Birdwatching1 were out in the sunshine (and frost) to see what the high tide brought to Flint Castle. The sun shone all day, we saw lots of birds, the co-ordinator got breathalysed (it was a spot check) and was given the all clear. A good lunch at Halfway House (no alcohol for the co-ordinator), then another hour in the West Hide at Deeside Naturalists site in Flint. A good day was had by all, and we only had two falls on the ice, fortunately with no injuries, only embarrasment.
Thursday Strollers' off to Black Lake (Delamere), 21 October 2010
Thursday Strollers' latest walk was to Black Lake in Delamere Forest, followed by lunch at the Fishpool pub. The weather started off wet but by the end of the walk the sun was shining. What's a bit of rain among friends! Black Lake dates from the end of the last Ice Age as the glaciers melted, leaving behind large boulders and blocks of ice. These blocks melted to form 'kettle holes', some of which these are now occupied by meres, which are a feature of the area. Click here for a photo of the group by the lake.
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Industrial Heritage Group visits Appleby's Cheese, 20 August 2010
On 20th August, members of the Industrial Heritage group travelled to Hawkstone to visit Appleby's Cheese. They are the last remaining producer of traditional farmhouse Cheshire cheese and use milk from their own cows and granny's recipe. The enthusiastic Appleby family showed us all stages of the process, from the milking parlour right through to sampling the final product - a far cry from the usual bland mass-produced Cheshire. The smell in the storage room where the cheeses are ripened for several weeks was particularly memorable.
In the afternoon we visited Whitchurch Heritage Centre, where an ex-employee of the local clock-making company of JB Joyce gave us a talk about the history of the firm, which was established in 1690 and is the oldest maker of tower clocks in the world. A very interesting and enjoyable day was then rounded off with a visit to a nice, old-fashioned tea shop!
Trip to Llanddwyn Island by Geology Group, 20 September 2010
On Monday 20 September, 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.
Successful Co-ordinators Meeting, 18 September 2010
The Co-ordinators meeting at the Quaker Meeting House on 18th September went well, judging by the vibrant discussions. The buffet lunch after the meeting was enjoyed by all. You can find more about what went on the meeting from the following:
Friday Walkers off to Kinder Downfall, 3 September 2010
Friday Walkers were blessed with a wonderful sunny day on 3rd September. Starting at Hayfield the route headed for Kinder Reservoir, then climbed up William Clough to join the Pennine Way at Ashop Head. The walk then followed the edge of the Kinder Plateau, past Kinder Downfall to Edale Cross, before turning west along Oaken Clough and dropping back via Tunstead Clough Farm to Hayfield. Thanks to Tim and Jenny for organising the walk. Jenny had a senior moment amongst the rocks, but emerged with no more than a few grazes and bruises. A small price to pay for those stunning views! Click here for a few photos.
Thursday Strollers lucky with the weather on Hilbre Island - 19 August 2010
The Thursday Strollers enjoyed a great day out when they visited Hilbre Island on Thusday 19th August. The weather was perfect! Click here for a few photos, taken by Pam.
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Damp conditions on Y Garn for Friday Walkers
6 August 2010
The Friday Walkers aren't put off by a little rain, or even quite a lot of rain, in fact almost continuous rain, wind, mist .......! These were the conditions on 6th August when an intrepid group ascended the 3100ft peak of Y Garn in Snowdonia and completed a short but fairly strenuous circuit with a descent through the steep, rocky Devil's Kitchen to Llyn Idwal. Judging by the bedraggled but curiously happy faces in the summit photo they even quite enjoyed it! Thanks to Stephen (The Rain King) Trumper for leading us safely in difficult conditions.
Industrial Heritage Group visits Cheddleton and the Caldon Canal, 16 July 2010
On 16 July the Industrial Heritage Group enjoyed a visit to the Flint Mill at Cheddleton and industrial heritage sites at Froghall and Consall Forge on the beautiful Caldon Canal in Staffordshire. Click here for a report on the visit and a few photos.
Strolling Group's Thurstaston walk, Friday 2 July 2010
Starting from The Cottage Loaf (Thurstaston, Wirral) the Strolling Group enjoyed fine weather as they repeated a stroll they had made some time ago. Everything looked different of course, especially as the group reversed their previous direction of stroll. Click here for a photo of the group on the beach.
Friday Walking Group walks from Llangynog to Pistyll Rhaeadr, 2 July 2010
This energetic walk on 2nd July 2010, measuring about 13km with about 650m climbing, was led by Tony and Esme. It started at Llangynog and headed north towards the Berwyns before dropping down to a picnic lunch above the waterfall at Pistyll Rhaeadr. The return route included a steep descent towards the Afon Tanat valley, followed by a leisurely walk into Llangynog, where the local pub provided welcome drinks! Click here for a few photos, taken by Helen Holyoak. An archive of reports and photos of Friday Walking Group's walks can be found here.
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Birdwatching Group sees Puffins at South Stack - 2 June 2010
On Friday 18th June Birdwatching 1 set off for the RSPB reserve at South Stack cliffs on the tip of Anglesey with hopes of seeing Puffins and Choughs. Low and behold the sun shone and after seeing hundreds of guillemots, some ten Puffins were seen outside their burrows followed by a group of three Choughs. A short stop at RSPB Valley Wetlands (across the road from the RAF station) produced more birds along with some amazing orchids in the damp grassland before the 100 mile trip back to Chester. Click here for a few photos of the birds (taken by Jenny and Andrew).
More accomplished photos from the Photography Group
The Photography Group organised two visits during May and June. The first visit, on 20th May, was to Knutsford and the Birds of Prey Centre. Members found the Birds of Prey Centre so interesting that only one person visited Knutsford! The second visit was to Llangollen on 10th June. A selection of Birds of Prey photos can be found here, and photos of Knutsford and Llangollen here.
The group met at Mollington Village Hall on 8th July to display their photos. The theme for the Mollington meeting was the letter 'D'. A selection of 'letter D' photos can be seen here.
More excellent photos from the Photography Group!
On May 13th the U3A Photography Group met at Mollington Village Hall to display and discuss the photos taken by a few members at Anderton and Marbury during April, although the group seems to have concentrated on Anderton for their inspiration. Click here for a selection of photos.
The theme for the Mollington meeting was the letter 'N' which resulted in some very interesting and imaginative photos. Click here for a selection.
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.
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New location and time for Chester U3A's Photography Group (update)
Another successful visit to Caerlaverock by 'Bird Watching 1' Group, 22-26 February 2010
Chester U3A's 'Bird Watching 1' Group has been visiting Caerlaverock Wetland Centre on the north shore of the Solway Firth for many years. This years visit was as enjoyable as ever - see Tim Carley's report to find out what they did and saw.
Chester U3A's Photography Group visits Portmeirion, 11 February 2010
The Photography Group makes regular visits to suitable locations for photography. The Group's most recent outing on 11th February 2010 was to Portmeirion, an 'Italianate' resort village in Gwynedd, on the coast of Snowdonia. They had a glorious sunny day and a sample of their excellent photos can be seen here.
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Tuesday Walkers' first walk of the year, 19 January 2010
For the first walk, we did a circular route from the Cock O'Barton (on the A534 near Broxton), taking in some of the six parish millenium walk. We were ably led by Harry Corner, but as you can see from the picture, high stiles, mud and short legs don't make an easy combination. Those who visited the Gents at the Cock O'Barton were faced with one of the walk's biggest challenges - we don't unfortunately have a photograph, but you could always give the pub a visit ..... !