News archive
1st October 2024
October/November 2024 Lostwithiel u3a Newsletter
In this issue there’s news of our next few Open Meetings, a report from three garden visits and a face-off between a muddy puddle and a road.
Plus, as the Pop and Rock Music Appreciation group hold their 20th meeting, who tops the charts?
30th September 2024
Your u3a Friends Newsletter Express - u3a week special
- Your u3a week stories
- Join the launch of our new report
- Watch our film of u3a Festival 24
26th September 2024
Highlights from the episode include member conversations on the joys of Slow Stitching, playing Pétanque, the guitar band 'Bandura', plus member Anna reads one of her humorous verses.
19th September 2024
Friends Newsletter - September
Read the September newsletter on-line via this link
1st September 2024
22nd August 2024
Friends Newsletter - August 2024 now available
1st August 2024
1st July 2024
u3a Online Events July 2024
- This month we hear from a Royal Pilot,
- We explore 'Forgiveness' in faith
- Ron Knott returns to speak about Numbers and Shapes
Read the newsletter via this link
21st June 2024
Radio Podcast June 2024
In this episode we are diving into the world of pirate radio in the 1960s - talking to a member who shares his incredible experience of those exciting, rebellious days;
We chat to one of our u3a members who is a talented musician and songwriter; and for those of us who have ever had a problem with our eyes or our teeth, we will be talking with a leading expert on these common problems
20th June 2024
Your u3a Friends Newsletter for June is published today.
Included in the edition are articles about :-
3rd June 2024
u3a Online Events Newsletter for June 2024 now available
- Help us Remember with the War Memorials Register
- Mike Trevethick talks to us about Vaccines
- We have two Olympics-based events
31st May 2024
Grand Family History Day Saturday 15th June
On Saturday 15th June there will be a Grand Family/Local History Discovery Day at Liskeard Public Hall, West Street, Liskeard presented by South East Cornwall Museums Forum.
The event promises to help you discover your ancestors, heritage and roots with information and displays from many local groups including the Cornwall Family History Society, Devonport Naval Heritage Centre, Cornwall Regimental Museum, Saltash u3a Ancestral Time Travellers, Lostwithiel Museum plus our very own Lostwithiel Area u3a Family History Group.
Entrance is free and doors open at 10am until 3pm . Refreshments will be available. More information on the Visit Liskeard website.
31st May 2024
23rd May 2024
The u3a Friends Newsletter for May 2024 was published today
In this issue...
- Meet our Great North Run runners
- The winners of the u3a poetry competition
- Living life to the full
Read on-line via this link http://eepurl.com/iQor46
1st May 2024
u3a Online Events Newsletter for May 2024 now available
- We hear from the Royal Osteoporosis Society,
- Peter Higginbotham presents on the Workhouse,
- The 6 part Cryptic Crossword series returns
30th April 2024
Ilkley u3a member Peter Higginbothom talks about his research into workhouses and how they evolved through the years. Later on in the episode, Margaret Fiddes talks about the first ever u3a festival taking place later this year - with opportunities for life drawing, stargazing and walking football.
Plus, learn about how the brain works, discover the history of The Lions Club, and we hear from u3a member Bob Wells who started his own podcast in the pandemic - and will soon be joining the u3a radio podcast team.
17th April 2024
Lostwithiel u3a Newsletter: April - May 2024
In this issue we have news of a vacancy on the committee and a report on our last Open Meeting plus updates from our groups including a new group contact/leader for the Garden Visits group, the Theatre Group in the audience for Hell’s Bells at the Lostwithiel Community Centre and u3Art holding a bric-a-brac sale for the Community Centre.
Read the newsletter in pdf format via this link
4th April 2024
It's a new website with a wide range of offers and services for everyone signed up to our u3a Friends Newsletter community.
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1st April 2024
u3a Online Events April 2024 -- Read full newsletter on-line
21st March 2024
The u3a Friends Newsletter for March 2024 is now available.
In this issue...
- Bromley u3a dances the day away
- An Easter maths challenge
- Finding a new community through u3a
Read on-line via this link http://eepurl.com/iKOQv-/
1st March 2024
This month we hear from a British Airways Concorde Pilot, there are two Artificial Intelligence Events
and hear the third talk of the 'Secrets of the Human Brain' series.
Click here to read the newsletter
(Photo by NordWood Themes on Unsplash)
29th February 2024
Open Meeting Monday 4th March 2pm is still going ahead!
23rd February 2024
The u3a Friends Newsletter for February 2024 is now available.
In this issue...
- Membership milestone for Ilkley u3a
- Olympic memories on this month's podcast
- A journey inspired by film
Read on-line via this link http://eepurl.com/iJO17g
7th February 2024
u3a Online Events February
This month we learn about David Hockney, there are three science talks to get involved with and the Meditation and Mindfulness 6 week series is back.
Click here to read the newsletter
31st January 2024
February 2024 Newsletter now available.
Read in pdf format by following this link
26th January 2024
New Year Radio Podcast now available
In this episode, hear about an organisation that champions older songwriters, what it's like to live with essential tremor and more.
25th January 2024
January National u3a Newsletter published today.
Read on line via this link
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In this issue...
- Investing in Volunteers
- Film Subject Adviser Dieter shares his favourite films
-Bailgate u3a's Vegan and Vegetarian group
9th January 2024
u3a Highlights of 2023
4th January 2024
u3a Online Events January
Why not start the New Year with some wellness?
We welcome talk 1 of 7 about the human brain and we get an introduction to air fryer recipes.
Read the newsletter via this link
1st January 2024
National u3a newsletter for January 1st 2024 available via this link
26th December 2023
Christmas National u3a Newsletter
Available via this link
13th December 2023
u3a National Newsletter published today
2nd December 2023
u3a Online Events December
30th November 2023
December 2023 Newsletter now available
The "internal" Lostwithiel u3a Newsletter for December 23 / January 24 was published today.
Read in pdf format by following this link
26th November 2023
u3a Radio Podcast November 2023
In this bumper edition of the u3a radio podcast
- The team learn about what it is like to be a reporter for Vatican Radio,
- Hayling Island u3a's Sea Shanty group,
- A penny farthing race
-The 2023 u3a creative writing competition.
Elsewhere in the episode, Helena Herklots, the Commissioner for Older People and Ageing in Wales, shares why the role is needed and how she petitions for the rights of older people.
Listen to the podcast via this link
;Old Radio Image Credit: Joe Haupt from USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
22nd November 2023
Latest u3a Friends Newsletter published today.
1st November 2023
u3a Online Events for November 2023
HIGHLIGHTS
27th October 2023
u3a October 2023 Newsetter Pubished Today
In this issue...
- Watch the Third Age Trust AGM
- You On Your Own! Not anymore!
- Spotlight On: Discovering AI
17th October 2023
Latest u3a Podcast released today.
In this episode of u3a radio, Jayne from Cheadle u3a shares the tragic story of her son who passed away whilst travelling after catching dengue fever. She is now committed to spreading awareness about dengue fever.
Elsewhere in the episode, the u3a subject adviser for maths talks about how maths can be fun and the fascinating mathematic patterns that can be found everywhere, including in the natural world;
Members talk about a research and shared learning project exploring old theatre programmes;
Karen from Mawdesley u3a talks about her 'give it a go' group and the adventures that members have shared together.
Listen to the podcast via this link
13th October 2023
Our October / November 2023 Newsletter is now available. CLICK HERE TO READ
1st October 2023
u3a Online Events October
This month Chef Alex is back with delicious Autumn recipes,
A Science Network meeting at the end of the month,
And Julie returns with 3 more Family History sessions.
For more details read the newsletter via this link
Image Credit: Wilimedia CC BY-SA 2.0
30th September 2023
September 2023 National u3a Newsletter published
In this issue...
u3a week celebrations
South East Forum u3a Summer School
The joy of ballroom dancing
Read the Newsletter on-line via this link
18th September 2023
u3a Newsletter Express - A new film for u3a week
Read the full Newsletter via THIS LINK
9th September 2023
u3a Online Events September
Events during September include:-
- Paul Carter introduces the process of electing a US president,
- Merrie Maggie and Judith Walker to host Laughter Yoga,
- Moira teaches us about the British Secret Intelligence Services.
Read the full Newsletter via this link
29th August 2023
Latest (August) u3a Newsletter may be read via this link
17th August 2023
u3a Newsletter Express entitlled "Looking forward to u3a Week" now available
Click here to read
31st July 2023
u3a Online Events for August 2023
Events during August include:-
- A Science Subject Network meeting,
- The final talk about Expedition Cruising,
- Barry from Thorpe Bay u3a back to teach us about Staying Safe Online
Read the full newsletter via this link
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 2.0
29th July 2023
- Your u3a National Newsletter for July 2023 now available
In this issue...
- u3a Festival 24
- u3a on the One Show
- u3a member's art showcased at the Saatchi Gallery
Read the Newsletter via this link
26th July 2023
4th July 2023
This month;
- A virtual tour of Richborough Roman Amphitheatre,
- Discover more about Vincent Van Gogh,
- A talk by Subject Adviser Shri on Philosophy & Travel.
Read more on-line via this link
1st July 2023
Guest speaker is Sarah Ward from Fowey Valley Cidery and Distillery.
30th June 2023
27th June 2023
u3a radio podcast June 2023
In the last episode before the team take a summer break, discover the u3a off the wall event; the history of J Lyons and Co, and hear some of the winning poems from the u3a poetry competition.
7th June 2023
u3a Newsletter Express covering National Volunteers Week Published today.
The u3a is a movement of many volunteers, all giving their time and talents for the benefit of others.
During National Volunteer Week we celebrate those members who give so much time and energy to bring people together to learn, experience new ventures and simply enjoy life.
Read more in the latest Newsletter Express
5th June 2023
u3a Online Events for June 2023
This month we hear about Neil's trip to the Falkland Islands, Laughter Yoga is back, and the last talk in Julie's three-part series on Family History.
For more details see this newsletter
4th June 2023
Family History Day
Would you like to know more about your ancestry, how they lived, where they lived, what they did for a living. What was their house like, what did they earn. What was life like in their village or town?
Find out by visiting Family History Day in Liskeard Public Hall, West Street, Liskeard Saturday 17th June 2023, 10:00am to 3:00pm
Paticaipants include Lostwithiel Museum and Lostwithiel u3a Family History Group
FREE ENTRY
All day refreshments
Further info - 01752 847800 or on-line here
28th May 2023
The National Newsletter for May 2023 was published on 26th May.
CLICK HERE to read a copy
19th May 2023
Are you interested in family history?
Hear some tips on how to get started in the u3a radio podcast - more details in the newsletter.
Available to read here
5th May 2023
National Office u3a Newsletter Express for 3rd May 2023 now available.
Read on-line via this link
3rd May 2023
u3a Online Talks & Events - May 2023
This month we have talks & workshops for the Off The Wall celebrations.
The series of Family History talks continue,
We hear about Bletchley Park and the WWII Codebreakers
Read The Newsletter via this link
25th April 2023
Your u3a National Newsletter - April 2023
In this issue:
- 2023 u3a short story competition
- How to make the most of your garden in April
17th April 2023
u3a radio podcast April 2023
This month, hear about a group creating post box toppers for the coronation; the u3a member who is an expert in pet psychology; and the u3a member who has created a word challenge, already played by thousands of u3a members.
5th April 2023
u3a Newsletter Express for 5th April 2023 Published Today
CLICK HERE TO READ ON LINE
3rd April 2023
u3a Online Events April
We learn about the environmental impact of our clothes,
The Jewish festival of Passover,
Using census data to better understand your family tree.
Available to read on-line via this link
27th March 2023
17th March 2023
March u3a Podcast released today
This month, hear about the group trying to increase the quality of life as we age; the history of Hadrian's Wall; and join podcast member Sarah as she goes along to experience pickleball for the first time.
Available to listen to on podcasting platforms including Spotify, Google Podcasts and Apple Podcasts as well as YouTube. Details here
1st March 2023
Online Events for March
Highlights include:-
- Get active with Pilates or Gentle Yoga,
- Learn about the science behind the Climate Crisis,
- A talk from Radio 4 presenter and Physicist Jim Al-Khalili
Read more via this link http://eepurl.com/iktzz5
26th February 2023
Latest u3a National Newsletter available here
10th February 2023
2nd February 2023
This February why not learn something a little different?
Laughter Yoga starts monthly on 8 Feb,
We have a talk from Historic Environment Scotland,
You can learn about the neurological condition Prosopagnosia.
For full details visit http://eepurl.com/ijKwvb
1st February 2023
Join Richard Gladman, Head of Driving & Riding Standards at IAM RoadSmart as he takes us through the 2022 changes and what they mean for you.
On-Line Event Wed, February 15, 2023, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM GMT More details on this page
You will need to create an account and sign-in to Eventbrite to obtain a ticket.
30th January 2023
u3a National Newsletter for January available here
19th January 2023
Read Newsletter Express issued 19th January via this link
18th January 2023
In January's episode of the u3a radio podcast Jo attends a cookery group at Farnham u3a specifically focussed on encouraging men into the kitchen - and talks to some of the members who are learning to cook for the first time.
Elsewhere in the episode, the team hear about how u3a is celebrating the 1900th Anniversary of Hadrian's Wall; what happened before the Lindisfarne Gospels; some of the highlights of the Royal Collection, and they hear from a u3a member who helped make PPE in the pandemic
Direct Link to Podcast here.
3rd January 2023
On-Line Talks and events for January include
- Learn Digital Life Skills series every Friday,
- The Story of Motown Records Course begins,
- We hear from Ian Hawker about Climate Change and Biodiversity
To find out more click on this link http://eepurl.com/ie-bzz
1st January 2023
CEO of the Third Age Trust, Sam Mauger, and Liz Thackray, Chair, wish all u3a members a happy new year.
26th December 2022
The latestest u3a National Newsletter Express was published on Christmas Day. Read on-line via this link
19th December 2022
The Christmas version of u3a Radio podcast now available
This special episode looks back at some of the highlights of the last 12 months in the u3a radio podcast. Listen via this link
13th December 2022
The u3a National Newsletter for December has been published today.
The Newsletter asks "Where were you when Buzz Aldrin landed on the moon?" Click here to read on-line.
A bitesize version of the newsletter is also available in pdf format via this link
7th December 2022
Our next Open Meeting is on Monday 2nd January 2023 in the Church Rooms at 2pm.
Our Speaker will be Clint O’Connor with his talk ‘we are all made of stardust’
Read about the format of Open Meetings on this page
Non members Welcome
1st December 2022
Online Events for December include:
- Christmas recipes from Chef Alex
- A talk on the Maths of Bell Ringing
- A workshop on writing poetry with Sophie Blackwell of Bloomsbury publishers
Further details at http://eepurl.com/ieXWDr
21st November 2022
The u3a National Newsletter for November is now available. Click here to read on-line.
Topics covered include "How did the stones get to Stonehenge?" and "Learning More About: Languages"
A bitesize version of the newsletter is also available in pdf format via this link
24th October 2022
The latest version of the National u3a Newsletter was published today. Read on-line via this link
19th October 2022
The u3a radio podcast, set up in 2020, showcases the amazing things happening across the movement. It’s created by a team of u3a members who all have radio experience and features interviews with members, interest group leaders, Trustees, national volunteers and Subject Advisers.
The entire series is available to listen to on the National u3a YouTube channel, and since January 2022, has also been available to listen to on podcasting platforms including Spotify, Google Podcasts and Apple Podcasts .
The October 2022 edition of the podcast is available via this link
29th September 2022
The latest version of the National u3a Newsletter was published today. Read on-line via this link
27th September 2022
Our latest internal newsletter is now available. Follow this link
21st September 2022
The September edition of the u3a podcast is available via You Tube.
19th September 2022
FutherTribute to Queen Elizabeth II from National Office may be read via this link
9th September 2022
u3a National Office Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II be read via this link
26th August 2022
The u3a National Newsletter for August was published today. Read on-line via http://eepurl.com/h8PaX1
The latest edition of the u3a podcast is also available via you tube. See https://youtu.be/dceR6f7Bvt4
10th August 2022
The latest version of the National u3a Newsletter Express was published today. Read on-line via this link
10th August 2022
Our August local newsletter is now available via this link
10th August 2022
The latest version of the National u3a Newsletter Express was published today. Read on-line via this link
20th July 2022
The latest, and very long, National Newsletter was published on 19th July. You can read a copy via this link.
28th June 2022
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u3a National Newsletter for June is now available View on-line via http://eepurl.com/h4m8A9
16th June 2022
The latest copy of the National u3a Newsletter, focusing on the 2022 National AGM, was published on 14th June.
The newsletter may be read via this link
1st June 2022
The June 2022 Lostwithiel u3a Newsletter has recently been distributed to all current members,
A copy may be read on line via this link
20th May 2022
u3a National Newsletter for May was published today. Available to read via this link
17th May 2022
In this episode, the u3a radio team talk to the Alysoun Owen from Bloomsbury who is one of the judges of the 2022 u3a creative writing competition, the group convenor of Swansea u3a's Natural History Group who took to video making when unable to meet in person and a group at Harborough Welland u3a that introduces members to new experiences - from axe throwing to juggling.
20th April 2022
In the April 2022 edition of the u3a Radio Podcast we celebrate the Queen's upcoming jubilee and the u3a 40th anniversary with an interview with a u3a member who worked as a maid at Buckingham palace, talk to Bingham u3a about their Picnic in the Park plans for the Jubilee weekend and ask Eric Midwinter, co-founder of the u3a movement, about how it all began. Listen Here
15th April 2022
The April National u3a Newsletter is now available via this link
1st April 2022
In the latest episode of u3a radio, the team hear about the Specsavers partnership with u3a which showcases the skills of GenerationWOW, talk to u3a members who contributed to the 40th anniversary quilt and learn about the many usages of seaweed.
Listen to the episode with subtitles on YouTube channel Also available on Spotify.
29th March 2022
Our April 2022 Lostwithiel u3a Newsletter has recently been distributed to all current members,
A copy may be read on line via this link
18th March 2022
The March National u3a Newsletter is now available via this link
23rd February 2022
The February episode of u3a radio is also available.
In this episode, hear about how u3as will be having picnics across the UK to celebrate the 40th anniversary, the rising popularity of the sport racketball
Listen to the episode with subtitles on YouTube channel, Also available on Spotify.
13th February 2022
The latest u3a Newsletter Express is now available via this link
11th February 2022
Our February Lostwithiel u3a Newsletter has recently been distributed to all current members,
A copy may be read on line via this link
22nd January 2022
The January 2022 u3a National Newsletter is now available Read on-line via this link.
The most recent newsletter for the South West Region is also available here.
19th January 2022
In this episode of u3a radio, the team learn about the u3a 40th anniversary woodland, discuss the u3a Kindertransport learning initiative, and talk to a u3a member in Australia about how the organisation works abroad.
1st January 2022
Follow this link for a printed New Year message from u3a Chair, Liz Thackray and Chief Executive Sam Mauger.
Also view their message below via You Tube
1st January 2022
The committee of Lostwithiel u3a wish you a happy, prosperous, healthy and safe 2022
It's that time of the year when, traditionally, we look back over the last twelve months and look forward to activities in the New Year. 2021 was certainly a year of challenges for all of us, however, many of our groups took advantage of the easing of restrictions to meet safely or continued to make use of our Zoom facility to hold virtual meetings.
Unfortunately our Open Meetings proved too difficult hold as we couldn't comply with COVID guidelines and blackout the Church Hall. Sadly, due to increases in the Omicron variant of coronavirus, the Open Meeting planned for 17th January 2022 has been postponed. It is planned to hold the talk about Cornish Dance by Alison and Merv Davey of the Cornish Dance Society later in the year.
We really hope that we can
On a brighter note many groups already have plans in place for 2022 or are in the process of making them. Plans are already published, on the website, for the following groups:
- Bird Watching
- Family History (inc Zoom meetings)
- French
- Garden visits
- Lunch Group
- Photography (field trips and Zoom meetings)
- Poetry
- Strollers
- Theatre
- Wine Appreciation
The Walking Group has had a slight change to its programme with local walks on the second Tuesday in the month with four new leaders and walks starting a distance from Lostwithiel on the last Tuesday as explained on the updated web page.
And these groups continue to meet on Zoom:
- Creative Writing
- Bridge
All members will be receiving correspondence in mid January informing them that, after no change in annual subscription since our formation in 2013, your committee decided unanimously to increase the Individual Fee to £18 and the Joint Fee to £30 payable on the 1st March 2022
20th December 2021
9th December 2021
A new advent calendar created by u3a member and trustee, Derek, seeks to myth bust some of the misconceptions about the Third Age Trust for members.
A new door opens each day to a picture and a fact about the Third Age Trust, the organisation that oversees the more than 1,000 u3as across the UK.
See the advent calendar and open today's door now.
24th November 2021
The latest u3a National Newsletter is published today.
Read on-line via this link.
The November edition of the u3a Podcast is also available
9th November 2021
The latest edition of u3a National Office Newsletter Express is published today. Read on-line via this link
22nd October 2021
The October National u3a Newsletter was published today and is available on-line via this link
A shorter version of the newsletter, in pdf format for printing, may be downloaded from here.
19th October 2021
In the October episode of u3a radio podcast, our team talk to a u3a geologist about his adventures travelling the world, the winners of the u3a creative writing competition and much more.
18th October 2021
The October 2021 Newsletter Express was published recently by National Office. Read on line via http://eepurl.com/hJGxgD
The October 2021 Lostwithiel u3a Newsletter was published on 18th October. Read a pdf version via this link
17th August 2021
The August 2021 edition of the National u3a Newsletter is now available via this link.
A pdf version of the newsletter may be downloaded from here.
6th August 2021
The August 2021 Newsletter Express was published yesterday by National Office.
Read on line via http://eepurl.com/hFm9D9
16th July 2021
The July edition of the National u3a Newsletter is now available via this link.
A pdf version of the newsletter may be downloaded from here.
13th July 2021
The latest National Office Mailing covers the topic of Internet Scams, Click here to read
22nd June 2021
The June edition of the National u3a Newsletter is now available via this link.
A pdf version of the newsletter may be downloaded from here.
18th June 2021
The u3a radio team have been producing episodes since September 2020, capturing the amazing stories and members that we have across the u3a movement.
This June episode is the last before a summer break, which will see the team returning in September 2021.
23rd May 2021
The National u3a Newsletter for May 2021 is now available via this link
A printable pdf version of the newsletter may be downloaded via this link
13th May 2021
The latest copy of u3a Newsletter Express has just been issued. Read on-line here.
24th April 2021
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April's National Newsletter is now available. Click here to read.
A shorter pdf version is also available here.
25th March 2021
The latest edition of the National u3a Newsletter is now available via this link.
A pdf version of the newsletter may be downloaded from here.
19th March 2021
Episode 6 of our u3a radio podcast has a history theme.
It features stories from u3a members about their experiences of the Battle of Britain and the Blitz, an interview with the u3a Egyptology Subject Advisor and our team find out more about a Speaker Swap that's been happening across u3a British History groups.
9th March 2021
A Raphael Tuck postcard from the late 1930s showing Whitehall looking north.
A 30 minute talk given by London Blue Badge Guide Don Brown looking at some of the inspiring, dramatic and poignant memorials to the dead of the First World War will take place on Sunday 4th April at 12 noon. To find out more and to book for this free event visit this website.
The presentation includes a 'visit' the Cenotaph, the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, memorials to the Royal Artillery and the Machine Gun Corps, and more, hearing about the history of the monuments and the horrors of the Great War
NOTE: This On-line Event is organised by UK Tours on-line. Lostwithiel u3a is not involved in the arrangements
7th March 2021
The latest copy of u3a Newsletter Express has just been issued. Read on-line here.
The newsletter includes a message from Sam Mauger CEO of the Third Age Trust.
20th February 2021
The February u3a Podcast is now available. Direct Link here
19th February 2021
Our next Open Meeting will be on Monday 1st March at 2pm via Zoom. The talk is entitled “The Job of a Laughtime”. Brad Ashton, a TV and radio comedy scriptwriter, has written for a number of comedians including Tommy Cooper, Les Dawson, Dick Emery, Frankie Howerd, Bruce Forsyth, Hylda Baker, Hattie Jacques, Bob Monkhouse and Groucho Marx. He will tell us about the fun he has had writing for these comedians and humorous back-stage stories. The Zoom login details for this talk will be emailed to all members on Monday 22nd February.
31st January 2021
Over the next few weeks the u3a Office in London has organised a number of learning events on-line. These include
- Friday Watercolour Painters
- A Taste of Japan
- Encouraging Chess in u3a
- An Introduction to Temples in Ancient Egypt
- The British Army in Germany since 1945
- Maths activities and games
- Wellbeing in Nature
Spaces are limited and advance registration is required. Details at https://u3a.org.uk/events/educational-events
27th January 2021
Heidi Clemo, Cornwall Census Engagement Manager at the Office for National Statistics, has contacted us with advance information about the 2021 Census, Hedi reminds us that "A successful census will ensure everyone from local government to charities can put services and funding in the places where they are most needed. “This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, schools and new transport routes. That’s why it is so important everyone takes part and we have made it easier for people to do so online on any device, with help and paper questionnaires for those that need them."
The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives us the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been carried out every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941. It will be the first run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets. Census day will be on March 21, but households across the country will receive letters with online codes allowing them to take part from early March.
The census will include questions about your sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. And, for the first time, there will be a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years. For more information, visit census.gov.uk.
25th January 2021
The National Office Newsletter for January 2021 has been published. Read it online here.
A pdf version of the newsletter is available via this link - https://bit.ly/3ch5Bip
20th January 2021
This email, about a national creative arts competition for older people, was recently received by Lostwithiel u3a
Subject: King Lear Prizes
Dear Lostwithiel Area u3a,
I’m writing to you from the King Lear Prizes, the national creative arts competition for older people during the COVID-19 pandemic. I wanted to inform you about the latest round of the competition, which has just opened to entries, and is running from January to March 2021.
Your u3a members may be interested in hearing about the competition, which is specifically for amateurs and beginners who are over the age of 65.
The competition accepts entries in poetry, real stories (short stories from people’s lives), art and musical performance, and there are over £2,000 of prizes on offer. The winners will be picked by our panel of expert judges including Gyles Brandreth and Julian Lloyd Webber.
For more info and how to enter, please take a look at our website: www.kinglearprizes.org.uk
If you think some of your members might be interested in taking part, please do share this information with them. It’s a great creative project for people to get stuck into particularly during this lockdown, and it’s an opportunity for your members to improve their creative skills.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Very best wishes
Chris Bland
General Manager King Lear Prizes
chris AT kinglearprizes.org.uk
2nd January 2021
Watch a New Years Day Message from u3a CEO Sam Mauger. It was released in a special u3a Newsletter Express. Sign up to receive u3a national newsletter in 2021 and share the latest news from across the movement.
1st January 2021
The u3a Office has published a Christmas Newsletter and a New Year Newsletter.
20th December 2020
The National Office Newsletter for December has been published. Read it online here.
A pdf version of the newsletter is available via this link - https://bit.ly/2Tuzgda
27th November 2020
The u3a Radio Podcast is made by a team of u3a members with experience in radio – Nick Bailey, Ela Watts and Peter Clift– who structure the episode, conduct and record the interviews and put it all together to create the final product.
In this episode, there are interviews on creative writing, opera and much more.
27th November 2020
The National Office Newsletter for November has been published. Read it online here.
A pdf version of the newsletter is available via this link - https://bit.ly/3fE6yAW
4th November 2020
A summary of the latest Government regulations, issued by u3a National Office on 4th November 2020, may be read below.
28th October 2020
The National Office Newsletter for October has just been published. Read it online here.
A pdf version of the newsletter is available via this link - https://bit.ly/2Tuzgda
29th September 2020
The first-ever u3a radio podcast has been released today. Available to view directly on You Tube via this link
22nd September 2020
The National Office Newsletter for September has just been published. Read it online here.
A pdf version of the newsletter is available via this link
26th August 2020
The National Office Newsletter for August has just been published. Read it online here.
A pdf version of the newsletter is available via this link
16th August 2020
u3a members from across the UK to take part in a national virtual choir project.
This project is being helped by Plymouth u3a member Richard Keoghoe. In a series of Zoom sessions spanning over 5 weeks, participants will learn the arrangement and practice singing the song ‘Savannah’, composed by Richard. The final product will be made up of recorded contributions from each member. This will then be shared on our YouTube channel and across our social media platforms.
The first Zoom session will take place on 20 August at 2pm, and the sessions will take place every Thursday until 17 September. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, however if you are unable to make one please do not let this discourage you from taking part.
Find out more about the project and sign up to the event for free with Eventbrite. Sign up to the first session and a link to all the Zoom sessions will be sent to you by email.
16th August 2020
The Learning Department of our u3a National Office has created a survey to help them develop a new Online Learning Hub. This is going to be an online collection of all of the resources and tools you need to support learning across your interest groups and your u3a.
This short questionnaire will give the learning department valuable information about what’s important to members, and what needs to be considered in the design and implementation of the Hub.
None of the questions are compulsory and your response is anonymous. It should take less than ten minutes. You are invited to complete the survey here.
8th August 2020
The latest National Office Newsletter Express has just been published. Read it online here.
The newsletter includes very detailed instructions on restarting interest groups which may be accessed at https://bit.ly/30CYkD8
23rd July 2020
The latest National Newsletter has just been published. Read on-line via this link.
Included with this newsletter is a short promotional film which you can also view below
17th July 2020
Our cycling group had their first ride since March this week. Their 22 mile route saw them leave from Bodmin and ride via Blowinghouse, Reperry Cross, Higher Menade, Lavrean, Bowling Green, Rescoria and Tregertha stopping at The Eden Project for lunch returning via Carne Cross, Bridges, Tredinnick Fields, Lowetown, Trebell Green and Tregullon.
17th July 2020
Our Photography Group took to Zoom this week to replace their regular monthly get together, using the option of sharing a screen to review each others images.
4th July 2020
The latest edition of the Lostwithiel u3a Newsletter has been sent to all members either via post or email.
A copy may be read on-line via this link
National Office has recently released a short film "u3a Life in Lockdown"
29th June 2020
Click here for Newsletter Express issued 26th June 2020
National Newsletter for June has now been published. Read Here
May National Newsletter is now available. Click here to read
National Office Newsletter Express dated 7th May 2020 available via this link
April National Newsletter now available see http://eepurl.com/gZiR4z
National Office Newsletter Express dated 27th March 2020 available via this link
National Office Newsletter Express dated 3rd March 2020 available via this link
March National Newsletter now available see https://bit.ly/2Uqh3h3
18th May 2020
Our very talented Photography Group members have been posting some beautiful images on their webpage every week, as well as lots of information about nature, wildlife and travel adventures.Have a look via this link
Image credit: Steph Thomas
17th March 2020
Image by Olga Lionart from Pixabay
UPDATE 17TH MARCH
All Group meetings have now been cancelled or postponed.
National Office Covid-19 News and things to do available VIA THIS LINK
18th February 2020
Our Next Open Meeting will take place on Monday 2nd March 2020 at 2pm in the Church Rooms Lostwithiel. The speaker. will be Ian Gasper talking about "Patagonia, Landscape and wildlife"
Ian is a former head-teacher and much-travelled individual. He has volunteered with VSO twice, in Ethiopia and Nigeria. He is an experienced speaker, having entertained many groups with his wonderfully illustrated talks.
Open meetings give members the chance to chat to other people outside their interest groups, learn about current activities, and find out about any new groups being formed. General Meetings are ideal for new members to discover what is happening in Lostwithiel u3a.
Image: Torres del Paine National Park, Chile. (Wikimedia Public Domain work)
17th February 2020
The February 2020 Lostwithiel u3a newsletter may be read here .
The newsletter includes information about our Open Meeting on March 2nd, which includes a talk about Patagonia.
15th February 2020
The February u3a Newsletter, published by National Office, can be read here
23rd January 2020
The January National u3a Newsletter is now available via http://eepurl.com/gP4IND
17th January 2020
image credit:Donald Macauley CC BY-SA 2.0
The first Photography Group field trip of 2020 takes place on Thursday 23rd January to Davidstow Airfield and on to Roughtor to capture the murmurations. Further details are on the Photography Group page of this website
7th January 2020
Do you play Chess? Or would you like to learn to play Chess? One of our members, David, has proposed setting up a new Interest Group to meet regularly. David is more than happy to teach beginners, and would also welcome experienced players who want to enjoy a friendly environment. If you would be interested in getting together to discuss this possible new group then please get in touch via our CONTACT FORM to be added to the list. (There is no requirement to select a Group on the Contact Form.)
David will then contact you to arrange an initial meeting in due course.
16th December 2019
Our December Lostwithiel u3a newsletter may be read here
The December u3a National Newsletter has also been published.
14th December 2019
Watch on You Tube our Strummers Ukulele Group performing at Eden Project on 12th December. Read more about the concert on their webpage.
5th December 2019
The latest National u3a Newsletter is now available via this link
23rd November 2019
The latest edition of our newsletter was emailed to members on 23rd November.
A copy of the newsletter may be read on-line at BY CLICKING HERE
7th November 2019
Lostwithiel University of The Third Age Photography Group is holding an exhibition of members' work at Shire Hall, Mount Folly, Bodmin, PL31 2DQ, from Mon 25th to Friday 29th November and from Monday 2nd to Friday 6th December. The exhibition is open from 9am to 2pm.
There will be over 70 images on display from 17 different photographers covering a wide variety of genres.
4th November 2019
Here is the interview with Adam Henson mentioned by James Kittow during his talk today.
22nd October 2019
The latest edition of our newsletter was emailed to members on 22nd October.
A copy of the newsletter may be read on-line at BY CLICKING HERE
8th October 2019
Our next Open Meeting will take place on Monday 4th November 2019 at 2 pm in the Church Rooms Lostwithiel. Our speaker will be James Kittow.
James Kittow Butcher and Grazier at Kilhallon is run by James Kittow who lives on the farm along with his wife Jane and their two children. This is a 5th generation Cornish family Butchers. Established in 1880, they have their own farm where they graze a pedigree herd of Red Rubies. James will tell us about the history of the family and plans for the future.
14th August 2019
The next Open Meeting is on 2nd September 2019. Our speaker will be Garry Tregidga telling us about the history of The Cornish National Anthem.
All members have been sent a copy of August Newsletter via email or post / hand delivery earlier this month. Please contact the secretary if you have not received your copy.
Rosie Smith is the new Point of Contact for the Lunch Group. Thanks to Dorothy Hancock for all her work over several years.
Recent updates to the following group pages - Creative Writing, French, Garden Visits, iPadders, Lunch Group, Photography, Science, Strollers,Theatre and Wine Appreciation.
19th July 2019
All previous copies of the Photography Group Newsletter may now be read on-line
Although several groups have taken a summer break, there have been recent updates to the following group pages. - Bird Watching, Photography, Poetry, Strollers,Theatre, Walking and Wine Appreciation.
26th June 2019
News about our AGM and July Open Meeting available on this page
There are a few places available in our Bridge Group
Recent updates to the following group pages. - Art Appreciation, Bird Watching, Bridge, Computing, Family History, French, Lunch Group, Photography, Science, Strollers, Theatre Strummers Ukulele Group, Walking and Wine Appreciation.
Follow these links to read The u3a National Office email newsletters for May and June.
12th May 2019
The u3a National Office email newsletter for April may be read here.
The Non - Fiction Reading Group is no longer operating.
Recent updates to the following group pages - Art2Start, Bird Watching, Computing, Creative Writing, Cycling, French, Garden Visits, iPadders, Photography, Science, Strollers, Theatre and Walking .
31st March 2019
The u3a National Office email newsletter for March may be read here.
The new Art2Start Group has got off to a flying start. Find out more on this page
Recent updates to the following group pages. - Bird Watching, Computing, Cycling, French, Garden Visits, Lunch Group, Photography, Poetry, Science, Strollers, Theatre, Walking and Wine Appreciation.
17th February 2019
The u3a National Office email newsletter for January may be read here.
The next Open Meeting is on 4th March 2019. Details on this page
Recent updates to the following group pages. - Art2Start, Bird Watching, Computing, French, Garden Visits, Lunch Group, Photography, Strollers, Theatre, Walking and Wine Appreciation.
20th March 2018
News from around the country available in the March Head Office Newsletter available via this link
6th March 2018
Resulting from the satisfaction survey conducted at the start of the year, various members have suggested there may be interest in forming the following new groups:-
Archaeology, Architecture, Art/ Drawing, Astronomy, Badminton, Boating (kayaks, small inflatables), Book Group/ Literature, Crafts, Lace Making, Musical Appreciation, Knitting Group, Philosophy, Spanish
If you are interested in setting up any of these groups then, in the first instance, please phone our Groups Co-ordinator Brenda Mead on 01503 220647. When prompted please say "u3a Inquiry."
13th February 2018
Our Privacy Policy has been updated and a new Data Protection Policy added to website.
26th January 2018
u3a Head Office have recently launched a new website known as U3APlus which aims to help, support and advise u3as to ensure that all their members can access the informal learning and activities in their u3as, regardless of impairment or disability.
More information about u3aPlus, events being held in London, regional schools and news from around the country are included in the latest Head Office Newsletter available via this link
11th December 2017
This month's "Perseverance Award" goes to members of our Non-Fiction Reading Group who have just completed reading a 700 page book "Capital in the Twenty-First Century by Thomas Piketty" Apparently vast amounts of cake were consumed to celebrate! Find out more about the book.
Updates recently made to the following groups:- Computing, Cycling, Family History, French, Non-Fiction Reading Group, Photography, Science, Strollers, Ukulele Fun, Wine Appreciation and Walking.
The December 2017 printed version of the Lostwithiel u3a Newsletter has been sent to all members without email. The newsletter can be accessed via this link.
Don't forget our Photography Exhibition opens on 18th December. See front page of website for more details.
The December newsletter from u3a HQ is now avaialble. CLICK HERE
26th November 2017
Advance information about our Photography Exhibition added to front page of website.
The latest newsletter from u3a HQ is now avaialble. CLICK HERE
10th October 2017
u3a Head Office has recently moved from Bromley to central London. The new address is u3a National Office, The Third Age Trust, 52 Lant Street, London SE1 1RB. The phone number remains unchanged (020 8466 6139 Mon to Fri 09.30 to 16.30)
18th September 2017
The National u3a Website has recently been redesigned and now includes a regular Newsletter. As well as an email edition, an online version may be viewed via this link
23rd August 2017
The August Newsletter was emailed to members on 22nd August. An online version may be viewed via this link
8th May 2017
Email with more information about forthcoming AGM distributed to all members on May 8th. The email can be read on-line via this link.
Third Age Trust have circulated results from a Governance Consultation Survey. Read on-line via this link.
A Copy of the new Interest Group Events Sheet has been added to the Group Contacts Page
18th April 2017
Email about committee roles distributed to all members on March 30th. The email can be read on-line via this link.
Calling Notice for 2017 AGM was circulated to all members on 16th April. Read on-line at this link.