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Kennet u3a Groups

American History     

Meets Tuesday, 3rd of month, 14.00 - 16.00
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact Amhist@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The American History Group has now been running for more than 2 years and we are now in the 20th century discussing the First World War. New members are welcome and can join in at any point. Past presentations are available on the website if anyone is interested in previous work. The group is led by an American who has a special interest in looking at the details of US History and sharing information for discussion purposes with the group members, who are mainly British though not entirely!

Art & Art History     

Meets Friday, 2nd of month, 10.30 - 12.30
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Contact art.history@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The topics are chosen by individual members. We do not follow a fixed curriculum or study a specific period or school. This approach has enabled the group to explore some unusual topics and artists. Discussions are prepared and led either by individuals or a small team. No experience necessary! Some members are new to the subject while others have a longstanding interest. We all learn from each other. Occasional visits to galleries and museums are also on the agenda.

Art Group, The     

Meets Thursday, 1st and 3rd of month, 14.00 - 16.00
Venue The Scout Hall - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact art@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Our members have varying abilities ranging from beginners to those with a very good level of artistic expertise. Members learn from each other. Occasionally a group member may have a specific new skill to share with the group. Help and advice is always available when needed. All that is required for an artist to see improvement in their work is plenty of practice, enthusiasm and be prepared to ‘have a go’. Quite a few members like nothing more than doing their own piece of work, away from distractions! We also have occasional 10 minute challenges as a diversion from doing our own work.

Aviation     

Meets Wednesday, 2nd of month, 12.00 - 14.30
Venue Eating place in Marlborough
Normally starts 12:00 to 15:00
Contact aviation@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We are an informal and sociable group who will meet either at a venue for a presentation or plan a visit to an old airfield or museum. We will usually meet at lunchtime for a chinwag over a drink and some food before progressing to the subject in mind. New members are always welcome.

Birdwatching     

Meets Thursday, 3rd of month, (time varies)
Venue Varies
Contact birds@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The group visits various sites within Wiltshire and adjacent counties where we hear and see a wide variety of bird species. Outings are generally half day with the more distant being a full day. The meets leader, Steve Edwards astounds the group with his knowledge of birds, wild flowers and fauna while the formal leader, Brian Davies, attends to the administration

Book Circle     

Meets Wednesday, 4th of month, 10.30 - 12.30
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Contact book.circle@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details A diverse range of books to discuss, most recently The Gamekeeper (Barry Hines), I,Mona Lisa (Natasha Salomon) and Lessons in Chemistry (Bonnie Gamus). Members of the group introduce the book and its author before general, lively discussion.

Book Club - Short Stories     

Meets Tuesday, 1st of month, 10.00 - 12.00
Venue Varies
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact book.short@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This group discusses short stories generally using one book of a variety of short stories. After more than two years using “That Glimpse of Truth”, we are now agreeing on a new easy source of short stories and welcome new members and new ideas. Our meetings are informal, enjoyable and relaxed in a member’s home. We consider the author’s overall body of work and the specific short story learning about writing techniques and why short stories are so special.

Book Group     

Meets Thursday, 4th of month, 14.30 - 16.30
Venue Marlborough
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Contact books.marl@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The group meet once a month to discuss a book that they have all read. The books to be read are chosen by the members. Over the last year we have read a variety of novels - some recently published and others that were several years old. All led to lively discussions which gave the group members added insights to the books' contents.

Books     

Meets Tuesday, 1st of month, 14.00-16.00
Venue Members Homes
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact Leader
Details The Books! Group meets on the first Tuesday of each month in a member’s house in Marlborough and environs. We read a wide range of fiction and occasional non-fiction. Each month we vote on a shortlist of three suggested by a different member. A wait list operates beyond 9 members.

Books Waiting List     

Meets NULL
Venue 
Contact NULL
Details NULL

Bowls (Short Mat)     

Meets Friday, weekly,13.45 - 15.45 (October-April)
Venue Leisure Centre Marlborough - map
Normally starts 13:45 to 15:45
Contact short.mat@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The venue is Marlborough Leisure Centre costing £2 per person per session (dependent on numbers attending). Players of all abilities are welcomed. Equipment is provided and instruction given. The Group is very supportive and an entertaining afternoon is assured. The group operates from October to April, in term time only, and runs from 1:45 to 3:45pm.

Bridge (Online)     

Meets Saturday and Monday, weekly,14.00-16.00
Venue Conference Call
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact bridge3@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We play on-line bridge using BridgeBase and Zoom which gives interesting hands and the ability to communicate via Zoom. All ability levels are welcome and a crib sheet is available to assist with bidding. You do not have to worry if you don’t have a partner to play. One will be provided.

Classic Cars     

Meets Flexible, various
Venue Varies
Contact class.cars@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We are a group of classic car enthusiasts and owners who like to use their cars (of whatever make) to enjoy: -Country drives and pub lunches; -Visits to car factories and restoration companies; -Classic car events;-Visits to country houses; -Any other car related events organised by our members or their partners To join you do need to own a classic car. Any make, any year. We're very flexible as to what is a classic.

Controversial Current Affairs     

Meets Thursday, last of month 14.00 - 16.00
Venue Axford - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact cont.disc.2@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We are a group with strong opinions who take an interest in what’s going on in the world. We’re not afraid to be politically incorrect and say what we think and enjoy a lively discussion on any topic of the day. We limit ourselves to twelve people so that everyone has a chance to speak and to avoid the interaction becoming a presentation from one person. Unlike other Controversial Discussion groups we do not generally discuss philosophical questions. Once a year we have a lunch at Christmas - if we are all still talking, that is!

Controversial Discussion 1     

Meets Monday, 2nd of month, 10.30 - 12.30 but not July
Venue Ogbourne St George
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Contact cont.disc.1@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We discuss a wide range of subjects which are both important and challenging. Many of these will have controversial elements. Our discussions are stimulating, friendly and often amusing. We do not expect to reach agreement. Members of the group are expected to come forward with ideas for subjects, and to lead discussions on them in a rough rota. One of us will act as Moderator at meetings. Group numbers are limited In order to facilitate good quality discussions.

Controversial Discussion 3     

Meets Thursday, 2nd of month, 10.30 - 12.30
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Contact cont.disc.3@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We meet most months in or around Marlborough and are currently using the Friends Meeting House for the majority of our meetings(10.30 am-12.30pm). Topics are suggested by members and the discussion is led by members in turn. Discussion can be lively and humorous, is usually evidence or experience based, but is never confrontational. Minds are sometimes changed - a bit.

Controversial Discussion 4     

Meets Wednesday, 1st of month, 14.00 - 16.00
Venue Members Homes
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact cont.disc.4@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We meet in members’ homes and discuss a wide range of subjects chosen & usually introduced by group members. Depending on the topic, some research may be helpful. We usually have fun, while respecting everyone’s view. Sometimes we agree but not always!

Craft     

Meets Tuesday, 1st and 3rd of month, 10.00 to 12.00
Venue Members Homes
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Contact craft@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Up and running from April 2023, meeting in the Group Leader’s home. We are a friendly group, who chat as we work on our individual portable craft projects, exchanging crafting ideas, learning from each other and generally putting the world to rights! So far there has been knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross stitch, bunting making and paper craft taking place but other portable crafts are welcome. In future we may tackle new skills together such as felting.

Croquet     

Meets Tuesday, 2nd & 4th of month 10.30-13.00 May - Sept
Venue Members Homes
Normally starts 10:30 to 13:00
Contact croquet@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This Group meets during the summer months at members' homes. Equipment is provided and participants enjoy the game and conversation with refreshments to follow.

Current Affairs     

Meets Thursday, 2nd of month, 10.30-12.00
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 10:00 to 11:00
Contact 07900 223345
Details This group considers current affairs from a variety of perspectives; economic, social, political and medical. Topics are chosen on a monthly basis in accordance with prevailing events and have included the COVID 19 pandemic, war in Gaza and Chinese territorial expansion. New members are always welcome and contributions are encouraged. No particular knowledge is required other than an interest in current affairs. The 2nd Thursday of the month meeting is held from 10.30 - 12 noon at the FMH.

Cycling     

Meets Monday, 1st and 3rd of month, 10.00
Venue Varies
Normally starts 10:00 to 00:00
Contact cycling@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Fed up with cleaning muddy boots and scrambling over stiles? Want some exercise in the open air in the beautiful local countryside? Haven't cycled for years but still remember how you enjoyed it? Then why not join us ? We usually cycle around 20 - 25 miles at a leisurely pace mostly on quiet lanes and cycle paths, and we always stop for coffee and cake at some point on the route. We also have occasional whole day rides when we stop for lunch and cover up to 40 miles. We are a very friendly mixed group with currently 27 members on the books.

Day Trips     

Meets Three or four trips per year
Venue Varies
Contact daytrip@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We aim to offer three or four Day Trips each year to places of interest within approximately two hours travelling distance from Marlborough. We have no preset ideas, but aim to take full advantage of the abundance of places of interest in our region, spanning the arts, gardens, historic properties/sites, towns, cathedrals, exhibitions and combinations of these to provide interesting and enjoyable days out without the hassle of driving. By joining this group you are under no obligation to join trips, but it does ensure you are first to hear about them.

Digital Photography     

Meets Friday, 1st of month, 09.45-12.00
Venue Minal Village Hall - map
Normally starts 09:45 to 12:00
Contact digi.phot@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We are a friendly group owning a variety of camera types. We either go on a photo shoot or set ourselves a topic and individually take photos. At the monthly meetings we view the results, some of us put these photos onto our site on Flickr which can be viewed using a link from the u3a in Kennet website. We aim to get more from our cameras by helping each other, watching teaching videos and general discussion

Dog Walking     

Meets Tuesday, 2nd and 4th of month, 10.30 - 12.30
Venue Varies
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Contact dog.walks@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month usually starting at 10.30am. The walks take place in many different areas with members of the group volunteering to lead. Steep hills and farming stock are avoided! Details of the meeting place and a short precis of the walk are communicated to members by e-mail. It is hoped that those intending to walk notify the walk leader in advance.

Exploring English     

Meets Wednesday, 2nd of month, 10.30 - 12.00
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:00
Contact exp.english@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We research and discuss a huge variety of topics, from rhyming slang to Proto-Indo-European roots. We look at reference works, new words, old words and how they have changed, the reform of spelling, the jargons of different crafts and industries. We have devilish quizzes on odd themes. And when we run out of existing phrases, we invent our own. In short we enjoy every aspect we can imagine of this quirky language of ours.

Family History     

Meets Monday, last of month, 14:30-16:30
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Contact 07785 705703
Details The last few years have seen a growing interest in family history, in part because of popular TV programmes such as the BBC’s “Who Do You Think You Are?”. At the same time, more and more information has become accessible online, making it possible for individuals to research their own family history without having to engage experts or visit and search through physical archives. We cover subjects such as key documents (Births, Marriages, and Deaths, Census Forms, Military Records etc.), Internet tools, family trees, and online archives, as well as sharing our stories and uncovering new sources of information - learning and improving together, sharing ideas and advice. Our group was formed at the beginning of 2023, and includes members at all levels, from those who are just starting out to those who have considerable experience. We currently have 18 members, with room for more. If you’re interested in researching your Family History but don’t know where to start, or if you already have some experience and would like to share it with others, then please consider joining us.

Flora & Fauna     

Meets Tuesday, 2nd of month, 14.15 - 16.15
Venue Varies
Normally starts 14:15 to 16:15
Contact flora.fauna@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The group meets monthly March - November at various sites suggested by members. The aim is to learn about the local flora and fauna, with group members identifying and recording our observations. Members share knowledge and expertise as well as photos, between meetings.

French Conversation (Advanced)     

Meets Tuesday, 3rd of month, 14.30 - 16.30
Venue Members Homes
Contact French.adv@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This group is for those with a reasonably fluent knowledge of the spoken French language who are interested in all things French but especially current affairs à la française. International and French current affairs as seen by the French press are discussed in French. You should be comfortable speaking French and reading advanced French magazine articles. Si vous parlez bien français, eh bien soyez les bienvenus! On parle et on s'amuse!

French Lang & Current Affairs     

Meets Thursday, 2nd and 4th of month, 14.15 - 16.15
Venue Marlborough
Normally starts 14:15 to 16:15
Contact french.lang@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This is a lively and engaging conversation group intended for participants with a firm familiarity with the French language. The group is focussed on gaining confidence in discussing and expressing opinions on a wide range of current affairs affecting all aspects of life in France. The content is diverse and dynamic, drawing on articles from recent French magazines/newspapers combined with related videos and music and taking advantage of the latest free language development tools available on the internet.

German (Advanced)     

Meets Tuesday, 2nd of month, 14.15-16.00
Venue Members Homes
Normally starts 14:15 to 16:00
Contact german.adv@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We read and discuss a variety of topics in German. Group members take it in turns to choose reading material on political, social and cultural subjects and these articles are distributed in advance to all.

German Conversation     

Meets Wednesday, weekly, 10.30 - 12.00
Venue Members Homes
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:00
Contact german.talk@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This group is for people with some knowledge of German who would like to talk German more easily, without being too concerned about the technicalities of the grammar. A sense of humour is an advantage. We meet weekly on Zoom and at a member's house once a month.

German Improvers     

Meets Thursday, fortnightly, 17.00 - 17.45
Venue Conference Call
Normally starts 17:00 to 17:45
Contact german.beg@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This an intermediate group for people with some knowledge of conversational German, who are self- motivated and want to develop their language skills through conversation. Daily use of Duolingo or equivalent is recommended.

Global History     

Meets Tuesday, 3rd of month, 10.00-12.00
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Contact global.history@u3ainkennet.org
Details The group meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. We aim to explore the most recent approaches to the history of the cultures and civilizations on the planet. We choose a key book each month and two volunteer presenters lead our discussions. Currently we are focusing on cultures before 1000A.D. Topics so far have included the Vikings, Byzantium 330-1034, India under Ashoka the Great, Han dynasty China, and the evolution of the Christmas feast.

History (Local)     

Meets Tuesday,1st of month, 14.30 - 16.30
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Contact loc.hist@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The group for people interested in learning more about the fascinating and extensive history of Marlborough and the wider Wiltshire area. All are welcome whether you have little knowledge of the history of this area or know a great deal and would like to pass your knowledge onto others. The group’s programme comprises talks by a mixture of external speakers and group members and visits to places of historic interest. A truly diverse range of topics are covered from pre-history to the present day. There is always something new to discover.

Italian Conversation     

Meets Alternate Tuesdays, 10.30 - 12.00
Venue Marlborough
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:00
Contact italian1@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This is a group of friends of Italy who meet to talk informally, but chiefly in Italian, on any topic, particularly those relating to modern life in Italy. No special level in the Italian language is required to enjoy the activities of this Group.

Jazz Appreciation     

Meets Friday, 1st of month, 14.00 - 16.00
Venue Broad Hinton
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact jazz@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Members present an informal recital or illustrated talk or just come and share their love of aspects of jazz - historic vintage performances, classic 'golden era' jazz, British jazz - trad or modern - Swing Era greats - Ellington, Goodman, Basie, Heath etc. - Bebop, West Coast, Cool, Progressive. There's a huge, free CD and book library available - all this plus tea and biscuits!  We hope in the future to add the possibility of outings to jazz venues, concerts & festivals to our core activities.

Life Sciences     

Meets Wednesday, 3rd of month, 10.00 - 12.00
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 10:15 to 12:00
Contact lifesci@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The aim of the Life Sciences group is to learn about and discuss major topics in the study of human and animal life, including basic aspects of Physiology and Psychology as well as broader topics such as Evolution, Natural History, Ecology and Environmental Science. Group meetings generally involve presentations of about one hour duration on specific topics, followed by discussion. Presentations will mostly use recorded video lectures from reputable sources, with occasional talks by individual members or guest speakers.

Mahjong 1     

Meets Wednesday, weekly, 14.00 - 16.30
Venue Burbage
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:30
Contact mahjong1@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Mahjong is a Chinese game originally, now played all over the world. It is similar to many card games but played with pretty tiles. It is very easy to learn and extremely enjoyable. We are a small friendly group who meet to play. Few of us had heard of the game before joining! Beginners welcome, or anyone who played "years ago" and wishes to re-learn. Come along and try just to see if you like it !

Mahjong 3     

Meets Tuesday, fortnightly, 14.00 - 17.00
Venue Marlborough
Normally starts 14:00 to 17:00
Contact mahjong3@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The Marlborough Mahjong group has limited availability for anyone interested in playing this compelling game. Please contact Roland Fisher to discuss the possibility of joining the group.

Music Maestros     

Meets Tuesday, 2nd of month, 14.00-16.00
Venue Members Homes
Normally starts 14:15 to 16:15
Contact 01672 511774
Details The group meets in Marlborough and, facilitated by the leader, discusses the music of composers from early to modern times. Only a member’s interest in the music is required without the need to perform or, indeed, to know much about music. Refreshments are enjoyed in comfortable surroundings.

Pétanque 1     

Meets Alternate Wednesdays, 10.30 - 13.00
Venue Great Bedwyn
Normally starts 10:30 to 13:00
Contact petanque@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Petanque, also called Boules, is an outdoor game where players toss boules (metal balls the size of an orange) as close as possible to a little wooden sphere (the jack). Play can be between individuals or teams. The game is played on a terrain or ‘piste’ that has a hard but rough surface. For more detailed information, refer to https//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petanque on the internet. It is easy to play and will benefit hand/eye co-ordination, general fitness and most importantly in our case, social contact. There is no charge involved but participants are expected to provide their own boules.

Pétanque 2     

Meets Alternate Wednesdays to Petanque 1, 10.00-13.00
Venue Great Bedwyn
Normally starts 10:00 to 13:00
Contact petanque2@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This group also meets at the Three Tuns, Great Bedwyn but on alternate Wednesdays to Petanque 1. Often called Boules, the two Petanque groups provide fun from beginner level in an ideal venue where parking, coffee, toilets and lunch are all available. Members use their own boules once accepted into a group.

Poetry Appreciation 1     

Meets Friday, 1st of month, 10.00 - 12.00
Venue Varies
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Contact poetry@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details A small friendly group welcoming new members who enjoy reading, sharing and discussing poetry. We touch upon a wide range of eras and genres depending upon the various choices made by members. Some enjoy taking the lead in selecting poems and poets and leading discussions while other members prefer to listen and reflect in their own way. There is a wide range of knowledge of poetry to enjoy sharing within the group but those new to appreciating poetry are very welcome to join.

Poetry Appreciation 2     

Meets Wednesday, 3rd of month, 10.00 - 12.00
Venue Varies
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Contact poetry@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details A small friendly group welcoming new members who enjoy reading, sharing and discussing poetry. We touch upon a wide range of eras and genres depending upon the various choices made by members. Some enjoy taking the lead in selecting poems and poets and leading discussions while other members prefer to listen and reflect in their own way. There is a wide range of knowledge of poetry to enjoy sharing within the group but those new to appreciating poetry are very welcome to join.

Quiz     

Meets Thursday, 1st of month, 14.30 - 16.30
Venue Conference Call
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Contact quizzing@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We meet once a month for 5 rounds of questions on varied subjects; from Art to Words & Language. When we meet on Zoom, the teams of up to 4 members are changed each time to give us a chance to make new acquaintances. Now that Covid restrictions are relaxed, we may meet up, on occasions, at local village halls or pubs. New members are always welcome.

Really Usefuls     

Meets As required
Venue Varies
Contact usefuls@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Our Really Useful Group is well known for cheery catering and other organisational support at our coffee exchanges and other meetings. Group members enjoy volunteering with each other, as well as meeting other u3a members. Being ‘useful’ and offering a helping hand can also be so much more. Such as supporting other u3a members who may find it difficult getting to meetings or taking part in our wide range of interest groups and other activities. In essence, to provide a range of services that aid participation and enjoyment in the many experiences offered by our U3a. Do get in touch if you would like to be a helper or if you might like help. Please note that we will need a few days’ notice to contact volunteers and help you

Recorder Beginners     

Meets Tuesday, weekly, 14.00-16.30
Venue Collingbourne Ducis
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:30
Contact recorder@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details If you have never played and would like to learn or if you have played and would like to play again, then come along and make music. The Group Leader has recorders available to borrow if you would like to try before you buy. All music is provided.

Recorder Intermediate     

Meets Friday, weekly, 14.00-16.00
Venue Collingbourne Ducis
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact recorder@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details If you already play and enjoy making music in a group come to this session. The Group Leader has recorders available to borrow and all music is provided.

Science News Discussion     

Meets 4th Tuesday afternoon of each month at 1400 hrs.
Venue Members Homes
Contact sciencetalk@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Every month there are hundreds of science news announcements in the world’s press covering a huge field of knowledge. We are a small group with a diverse range of backgrounds, not necessarily scientific, meeting together to talk about any news items which interest us and try to understand their significance or just shed a bit more light on them. None of us are experts but we have great fun de-mystifying the world.

Scrabble     

Meets Thursday, 1st of month, 14.00 - 16.00
Venue Axford - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact scrabble@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details For keen or aspiring wordsmiths join our once monthly Scrabble group. We are a friendly group and meet at the Group Leader's home.

Singles Dining     

Meets Evenings 2nd Thursday and 4th Tuesday in the month
Venue Eating place in Marlborough
Contact singlesdining@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We will eat out twice a month,on the second Thursday and fourth Tuesday in the month in and around Marlborough. Members will be expected to take it in turns to organise evenings out.

Spanish 1     

Meets Monday, 1st and 3rd of month, 10.30 - 12.30
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Contact espana.1@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Two parts to each session divided by a coffee break: the first is led by individual members of the group who introduce a topic of general or personal interest for discussion. In recent month these have included: cities of the future;second homes; the use of glass v. plastic The second part of the morning takes the form of a recording in Spanish on a topical subject from the internet. This improves listening and comprehension skills and allows for further and wider discussion on the particular topic.

Spanish 2     

Meets Tuesday ,1st and 3rd of month, 10.30 - 12.30
Venue Friends Meeting House - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Contact espana.2@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We are now well established as a group of Spanish improvers and are open to new members. The format is that members discuss topical issues followed by extracts from their own diaries. After a break for refreshments , elements of the Pasos Course Book, Read & Think Spanish or Spanish Short Stories are completed. The two hour programme concludes with a session about Spanish verbs.

Spanish 3     

Meets Tuesday, 2nd and 4th of month, 14.00 - 16.00
Venue Members Homes
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact espana.ss@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This friendly group started meeting in February 2019 when all participants were beginners but, since then, they have made steady progress towards understanding and learning the basics of the Spanish language. The focus is on mutual support of learners and the main emphasis is on communication. We broadly follow a course book accompanied by CDs and a DVD to reinforce learning and listening to the spoken language. Recently we have also started reading and translating short stories.

Table Talk Luncheon     

Meets Wednesday, 2nd of month, 12.15 - 14.00 approx.
Venue Eating place in Marlborough
Normally starts 12:15 to 14:00
Contact table.talk@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We are currently meeting for lunch at The Lamb in the Parade on the second Wednesday of each month. Cost is dependent on how much you eat and drink. We are a very informal group and our aim is to discuss any item of interest or concern and if we prove to be a large group there could be several topics at the table at once. If we run out of topics we get out the "Table Talk" cards (hence the name) to keep the conversation flowing without falling into general chatter. We are a friendly group and are an ideal group to join, especially if you are new to the area.

Table Tennis (Advanced)     

Meets Friday, weekly, 11.00 - 12.00
Venue Leisure Centre Marlborough - map
Normally starts 11:00 to 12:00
Contact tabtenfri@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The group meets during term time and aims to provide an opportunity to play more competitive table tennis. Games are mostly doubles, some singles. There is a small charge to cover hire cost and balls are provided.

Table Tennis 1     

Meets Wednesday, weekly, 10.30 - 11.30
Venue Leisure Centre Marlborough - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 11:30
Contact tabtenwed@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This very sociable group occupies three tables at Marlborough Leisure Centre. All levels of ability welcome. It's been known that playing Table Tennis will improve your co-ordination and reaction, so do come along and enjoy it. There is normally a small charge made to cover the cost of the court hire. Bats and balls can be provided. We do not meet during school holidays as the hall is normally booked for children's clubs’

Table Tennis 2     

Meets Thursday, weekly, 11.00 - 12.00
Venue Leisure Centre Marlborough - map
Normally starts 11:00 to 12:00
Contact tabtenthu@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details This friendly group hires three tables at Marlborough Leisure Centre. All levels of ability are welcome. As well as improving your co-ordination and reactions, table tennis is a lot of fun so do come along and try it. There is usually a small charge to cover the cost of the table hire. We do not meet during school holidays as the hall is taken up by children's clubs.

Theatre     

Meets Varies, 2 or more per year
Venue Coach to various theatres
Normally starts 10:00 to 00:00
Contact theatre@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Over the past couple of years (2022-23) members enjoyed plays in Oxford,"Private Lives"(March '22), and Cheltenham, "The Two Popes"(October '22), as well as visits to the Watermill in Newbury to see "Notes from a Small Island" by Bill Bryson (February '23) and Guildford to see "Quality Street"(June '23). We always book a matinee which allows us time to look around the town and have lunch before a performance.

Travel     

Meets Varies, 1 - 2 per year
Venue Within the UK
Contact travelanne20@gmail.com
Details This group goes on short coach trips to different parts of Britain twice a year. The trip is usually for four days. The group includes members from Kennet and Pewsey u3as. There are no meetings. Communication is via email and priority for places is given to those who have travelled previously, but spaces often come up. If you would like to know more, please email Anne to be added to the mailing list.

Walking 1 (Monday)     

Meets Monday, weekly, 10.30
Venue Varies
Normally starts 10:30 to 00:00
Contact mon.walk@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details As a group, we aim to provide a congenial weekly walk of 4 to 5 miles for about 2 hours. Group members take turns leading the walks. Afterwards, walkers may choose to lunch at a nearby venue. A programme of walks is distributed to group members by email and published on our webpage. Dogs are not permitted on our walks.

Walking 2 (Thursday)     

Meets Thursday, weekly, 10.00
Venue Varies
Normally starts 10:00 to 00:00
Contact thu.walk@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details Programmes of walks of around six or seven miles are organised in advance and published on the website as well as distributed to members. Our normal starting time is usually 10:00 a.m. on Thursdays. Occasionally walks may be planned for other days and times. Our walks are proposed by volunteers willing to lead a walk and a programme with descriptions of the routes and details of meeting points is sent to members by e-mail by the Group Leader, usually with a few days to two weeks' notice (as well as posted on the website). Before any walk, members may contact the walk leader to clarify details of the route and any potential difficulties. Proper walking footwear is essential and clothing appropriate for the weather should be worn and/or carried, as well as any medication possibly needed. Dogs are not permitted. Plans may change at the last minute.

Walking 3 (Strollers)     

Meets Tuesday, 1st & 3rd of month, all year. 11.00
Venue Varies
Normally starts 11:00 to 00:00
Contact strollers@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details We are a friendly group and aim to walk 2-3 miles taking approximately one and a half hours. Our walks are led by different group members, on a rough rota basis. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at different locations within a 10 mile radius of Marlborough. We start at 11:00 am and a lunch is organised for those wishing to stay after the walk.

Walking 4 (Striders)     

Meets Tuesday, 2nd and 4th of month, 10.00
Venue Varies
Normally starts 10:00 to 00:00
Contact striders@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details The Striders group is what it says. The object of each walk is to cover around 10 - 12 miles through interesting and beautiful countryside at a sensible distance-walking pace. The aim is to enjoy the walking, the distance, the situation and the conversation. If there is no conversation, we're going too fast! Walkers are expected to take drinks, packed lunches, and be suitably equipped re waterproofs, spare sweaters and any anticipated medications. The current programme can be viewed on the web site, alternatively anyone wanting a programme please contact the Group Leader. Dogs are not permitted on our walks.

Wine Appreciation     

Meets Thursday, 4th of month, 19.30 - 21.30
Venue Rugby Club, Frees Avenue, Marlborough
Normally starts 19:30 to 00:00
Contact wag@u3ainkennet.org.uk
Details If you enjoy a glass of wine and would like to extend your experience of tastes and your knowledge of types why not consider joining WAG? We meet once a month (except August and December) at the Rugby Club in Frees Avenue to sample and discuss around 6 wines. We compare grape varieties,countries and price ranges.Members present wines to illustrate their experience and share their knowledge.From time to time we have guest speakers from the wine trade. There is no subscription but there is a charge to cover the costs of each enjoyable and entertaining evening.