The last two speakers at Gainsborough and District u3a have been excellent, and regular Thursday attendees thoroughly enjoyed their talks.
In July, Keith Hanson returned and captivated the audience with tales of ghostly goings-on at the Tower of London, delivered in an amusing and entertaining manner.
In August, Paul Scott took the stage to discuss the life of the botanist Sir Joseph Banks. However, as Paul explained, Sir Joseph Banks was much more than just a botanist. He was a man of significant influence in Georgian Britain, with wide-ranging scientific interests.
Many people know that Banks sailed on the Endeavour with James Cook, having contributed more money to the expedition than the King himself. He later became a friend and advisor to the King and mingled with the leading scientists and politicians of his time, making substantial contributions to the improvement of Georgian England.
Although born in London, Banks moved to Lincolnshire as a young child, so there is a sense of local pride in claiming him as one of our own.
Upon his death, as per his instructions, Sir Joseph Banks was buried in an unmarked grave without any pomp or show, despite his remarkable life. This was yet another talk delivered with great skill, leaving the audience thoroughly engaged.
In September the guest speaker will be Martin Cairns, who will be sharing stories about his life in television.
Most u3a groups continued as usual over the summer, and the Buccaneers have met to make provisional plans for several future events. In the next three months, they are looking at supporting a member in a local theatre production in Gainsborough, exploring sculpture at Doddington, embarking on a treasure trail in Louth, and even trying white water rafting in Nottingham—they do enjoy a variety of activities.
For next year, ideas such as visits to transport museums, a seaside trip with a visit to a lifeboat station ending with a fish and chips supper, and outdoor activities like axe throwing have been suggested. Watch this space!