Update for retired members on group activities

The meeting took place at Joymount Hall in Carrick.

New and existing members were welcomed by chairman Bill Pollock who invited group leaders to discuss developments and outline plans for classes.

He thanked members for their support of Age NI which was also gratefully acknowledged by local manager Margaret Stewart.

Members heard that the practical art class has welcomed three new members. It takes place in Joymount Hall, on Tuesdays at 2.00 pm. It is open to any level, from beginners upwards, with a tutor on hand to pass on helpful hints.

The computer group meets on the first Thursday of the month, at 10.30 am, in Whitehead. These sessions are suitable for beginners or those who have general computing queries.

A family history group led by David Nicholl has become popular. Members meet in Carrickfergus Library on the first Monday of the month, at 10.30 am, to share advice on resources. On Wednesdays, the French group meets at this library, at 2.00 pm.

“Gadabouts” go anywhere for day out. Last month, they visited Crumlin Road Gaol followed by lunch at the Linenhall Library in Belfast. The next outing will take place on December 11 to the Ulster Folk Museum to enjoy an Edwardian Christmas themed day.

The gardening group, led by Margaret Franklin, met at Hillside Garden Centre to explore the wonderful variety of plants. On December 9, crafter Dorothy Deane will give a demonstration on making a Christmas wreath followed by the opportunity for members to make their own.

‘Learning Italian’ is a new group which meets weekly the first three Thursdays of the month, in Carrickfergus Library, at 11.00 am with tutor Annabella Noviello.

The music and theatre group led by Lorna McKee is planning an outing to Ballyearl on November 21 for a production entitled “Songs from the Shows” by Fortwilliam Singers.

The reading group discusses poetry and reading alternately when it meets every third Tuesday, at Carrickfergus Library, at 2.30 pm.

The walking group was rained off their Moira Towpath walk and looked forward to an alternative at Lagan Meadows, led by Rodney Lurring.

After their update, members listened to a talk on the airfield used in Whitehead during World War I which is now known as Diamond Jubilee Woods.

The University of the Third Age is a worldwide organisation, mainly for semi-retired and retired individuals. It is aimed at having fun, meeting new friends and enjoying activities of your choice. Further information can be obtained from the secretary by ringing 90 508515 or website www.east-antrimu3a.org. Come along and have a “taster” day at either a monthly meeting or group activity.