It is always sad to see groups come to an end and recently we have had two: Needlework & Patchwork and Science.  Eileen Timmins decided to give up her two Needlework & Patchwork Groups due to dwindling numbers (but she is still willing to help any interested members); she still leads Homebirds Luncheon Group.

As you will have read recently, after 10-years Jill Taylor gave up running the popular Science Group, and regrettably no other group member came forward to lead it.  The good news is that she has started a Geography Group, so popular that there is now a waiting list.  Not only that, she has started a second Scrabble Group that meets on the 3^rd & 4^th Wednesdays at 2.30 and at other times that suit.  In addition she still leads Understanding Music, another highly popular group, has taken over running the refreshments at the monthly meetings and is trying to get a Cryptic Crossword Group formed.  If only we had more enthusiastic and energetic people like Jill.

The further good news is that we have another two new groups Archaeology and 10-Pin Bowling.

The Archaeology Group is an exciting addition to our U3A as not only will they be doing digs and research but also plan to visit places of interest.  Talk to group leader Terry Cook about the first planned project – it is amazing.

The other new group is 10-Pin Bowling, which had its first meeting in October when 13 members came and 11 played. The group meets at the Bowling Alley, Madison Heights, Maldon.  It was agreed at the initial meeting that they meet fortnightly and if you are interested contact Lynne Leech 741029 for details The next two meetings will be on the 15^th & 29^th November. All standards of play are welcome from beginners to the experienced.

It would be good to see some more new groups formed to keep our U3A growing and vibrant so if you would like to start an interest group please contact me and we will endeavour to do so.

Enjoy your groups and please support your group leaders, as without them you would not have a group.

Diane Caulkett