This summer – and the golden opportunities it has offered to celebrate la dolce vita in the great outdoors – saw Dukeries u3a’s intrepid Ramblers Group venture into South Nottinghamshire, to the village of Orston. From there, they thoroughly enjoyed a glorious, sun-bathed walk along the River Snipe, passing through beautiful villages on their circular route back to the local pub, where (it is reliably reported) the best chip cobs in the world are to be found!
Their second ramble of the month – funnily enough, on St Swithin’s Day – could not have been more different, weather-wise. Rain, rain… and yet more rain! Not to be deterred, the valiant adventurers caught the train from Worksop to Kiveton Park and walked (or splashed!) along the banks of the Chesterfield Canal on their way back into Worksop. Despite the weather, the day was deemed a great success by all.
The History Group was treated to a presentation on the Leek Embroidery Society and the replica of the Bayeux Tapestry they created. This was especially topical as the original is set to be displayed at the British Museum in 2026. Leek’s version, freely available to view in Reading Museum, is identical to the real thing in all regards, except one. The Victorians who created it disapproved of nudity, so they added strategic underwear to some of the more ‘prominent’ figures!
Elsewhere, existing Dukeries u3a groups continue to go from strength to strength, and it is particularly pleasing to see newer activities – such as Play Reading – growing rapidly. New ideas and inspiration are always welcomed, so please do watch this space!
The u3a movement is a great way to make new friends, socialise, or learn something new. There are many good things happening at Dukeries u3a, which is open to all adults irrespective of employment status.Membership now costs £20.00 per person until 31st March 2026 and includes access to all activities and interest groups, including those of the North Notts Neighbourhood Group. To find out more, please go along to up to two meetings, held on the third Monday of each month from 12.30pm to 3.00pm, for £1.00 to cover refreshments.
For further information on any of the groups, events, or membership, please visit http://u3asites.org.uk/dukeries/home.