NW u3a Trustee Vacancy

A vacancy has become available for the role of Trustee for the North West Region of u3a. This is a really important position which gives you the ability to impact the direction of the u3a movement and to support new and existing u3as within your region. We would really appreciate you considering, whether you could share your skills… Read More »

Your Winter u3a Magazine

………. is still available: to read or download online at Horizons meetings at the Scout & Guide HQ (paper copy pickup for yourself and your u3a friends) by post (if you provide a SAE) If you want an entry in the next Magazine, please send it to the Magazine Editor ASAP. See Publicity Deadlines.    

Film Mondays

The Film Appreciation Group’s programme for the first half of 2024 is now available. Check it out and don’t miss the treats in store!

Ukulele Christmas Concert

The A&O u3a Ukulele Group are teaming up with another local band to perform a Christmas Concert for Charity.  Go along to Emmanuel Church on Thursday, 21 December for a joyful, festive evening. Entrance is free, with donations going to Shelter. Click or tap on the Poster to view details in full-size.

Publicity “Deadlines”

Do you need to publicise a u3a event or activity? Below are the various deadlines for advertising in the various publications. Please refer to the Communicating within our U3A webpage for more information on these ways of advertising and how to contact their “editors”. Remember that you need to separately contact the editors for all of the various publications… Read More »

u3a Advent Celebration

The Choir and the Recorder Groups (along with the pupils of St James Primary School, Westhead) are presenting an Advent Celebration: at Christ Church, Aughton on Thursday, 7th December 2023, 11 am Do come along and bring your friends and family!

Ageing Better December Workshop

Following the success of  Ageing Better with an Active Mind, run through the Wellbeing Group in conjunction with Edge Hill University last winter,  the project continued this year at the beginning of November. The first session (Workshop 4) was on Friday 3rd November at 11 am in St Michael’s Church Hall, with a talk on the topic of … Read More »

Local History Outdoor Visits 2023

The British Commercial Vehicle Museum, Leyland Saturday 13th May 2023 The history of commercial vehicles in the home town of truck and bus making. An indoor museum with over 50 well maintained vehicles on display, from an 1895 horse drawn steam fire appliance to the Popemobile.

HEOG Xmas Party

The Helping Each Other Group Xmas Party for 2023 is on Wednesday November 29th,  2-4 pm at the Scout & Guide HQ. Cost £5 to cover expenses. A Social Afternoon with light refreshments, punch, music and jolly fun. All u3a members are welcome even if not been to the Helping Each Other Group before. Just come along and… Read More »

September u3a Magazine

The latest u3a Magazine is still available in print format to pick up at our weekly Horizons meetings on Thursday mornings at the Christ Church Scout & Guide HQ.  It can also be conveniently viewed online or downloaded via this website.

Membership Renewal

Membership Renewals for 2023/24 commenced at Horizons on 14th September 2023. Note that you can also renew online anytime / anywhere.

Ageing Better Again

Following the success of  Ageing Better with an Active Mind, run in conjunction with Edge Hill University last winter,  the project is continuing this year at the beginning of November. The first session (Workshop 4) will be on Friday 3rd November at 11 am in St Michaels Church Hall, with a talk on the topic of  ‘The Sense… Read More »

u3a Bookstall

Most Thursday mornings at Horizons, there is a Bookstall where members can procure a variety of paperbacks, ideal for reading on the dark winter days. You are welcome to bring in books for the stall, but please only paperbacks, not hardbacks (due to lack of space). A variety of genres are appreciated. (There tends to be an preponderance… Read More »

Research Study with Edge Hill

Title of this new study: The underlying neural mechanisms of working memory in elderly populations. Description: “In this experiment, we will use a non-invasive technique called Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to explore the brain regions involved in working memory. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive method used to stimulate small regions of the brain. It uses electromagnetic… Read More »

“Silver Saturday” Coffee Morning

Free Event in celebration of Silver Sunday – a National Day for Older People.   Aughton & Ormskirk u3a  will have a table at this event displaying promotional materials explaining what we are all about and the benefits of membership.

Horizons Slideshow

If you are unable to visit our weekly Horizons meetings on Thursday mornings at the Christ Church Scout & Guide HQ, you can view the slideshow which highlights events in the coming weeks along with some general notices.

Cyber Crime

A recent Speaker Meeting featured Dave Carlos (Cyber Volunteer for Lancashire Police) talking about Cyber Crime with detailed advice on passwords, scams and online security. Here are more details of his talk. See details of the next Speaker Meeting organised by Pam Ball. (Many Thanks Pam for your ever excellent series !)

Connemara Memories

This story is a memory I have of an unusual Irish man, and of a time now long gone, and I hope it will be of interest to u3a readers. The poems attached at the end are by my husband, Francis Loughlin, and also relate to Connemara.  We both fell in love with this special place on our… Read More »

July Speaker Meeting

A message from Pam Ball: We had a very good response to the Speaker Meeting on 6th July, between 70 and 80 members present. Dave Carlos gave an excellent talk on Cyber Crime and has since emailed some useful links, which I’ve posted on Pam’s Past Speaker Meetings page on the website. The next Speaker Meeting will take… Read More »

The Dancer

When I was a little girl, my mother filled my head with stories of fairies, goblins and any other mythical creatures she could think of, so I spent quite a long time searching under the bushes in our back garden for a sight of one of the Little People.  With no luck, I asked her just where were they.  She smiled a… Read More »

Enjoy some ‘joie de vivre’

On Saturday,  8 July, the u3a Choir  look forward to seeing you at Aughton Village Hall for their next concert, commencing at 7:30pm. The theme is quite simply ‘Joy!’  We hope to be able to raise spirits and share our ‘joie de vivre’ with you. For further info on the flier for this event, view the Horizons slideshow which… Read More »

Group Events

Certain Groups run events, meetings and outings where any u3a member is welcome to attend even if they do not regularly or usually go to the Group Meetings.  Indeed extra people are sometimes necessary to make an event or group viable or cheaper.   So now and then, do check out the following: Beer Appreciation Theatre Visits Philharmonic Visits… Read More »

Healthy Brain Showcase – Edge Hill University press release

Family friendly workshop highlights healthy ageing to combat dementia Edge Hill University researchers and Aughton & Ormskirk u3a welcomed more than 170 visitors to a workshop to highlight healthy ageing and combat dementia. The Healthy Brain Showcase featured talks and discussion on healthy ageing and memory, in addition to dance performances and crafting. The event was part of… Read More »

Indoor Meetings Winter and Spring 2023

Tuesday 7th February 2023 A Brief History of Entertainment A ‘cheer up’ on a Winter Afternoon with the help of Mervyn Saunders. ______________________________________________________________________ Tuesday 7th March 2023 The Architecture of Alfred Waterhouse Born in Liverpool 1830, Alfred Waterhouse went on to study architecture and was particularly associated with the Victorian Gothic Revival Style. He designed many of our… Read More »

Spring Walking/Leisure holiday

On Monday 17th April 2023, 59 members of the Aughton & Ormskirk u3a made their way to the HF House Derwent Bank on the shores of Derwentwater in Portinscale for the Walking and Leisure holiday. After checking in, afternoon tea was served at 4.00 p.m. in the Orangery, which enabled everyone to relax after their drive from Ormskirk.… Read More »

Special Recorder Group Recital

The Recorder Group will be performing on 24th March at 2pm  at Aughton Park Care Home. It would be nice for any members who know residents there to join us. This will be our first recital in a care home.

March HEOG Meeting

The March Helping Each Other Group (HEOG) Meeting will  place on 29th March from 2.00pm to 4.00pm in the Scout & Guide HQ (large room). We are going to be entertained by a u3a Trio, who are going to bring along guitars and a ukulele to help us learn more about these instruments and to join in a… Read More »

‘Ageing Better’ Showcase at Edge Hill

Following on from the successful collaboration with Edge Hill University on the Ageing Better Project, there was a free Showcase Event on Saturday 11th February in the Arts Centre at Edge Hill University, starting with Reception and coffee at 10am. Programme 10:00 -10:30 – Reception & Coffee 10:30 – Opening ceremony 10:45 – Talks from guest speakers on… Read More »

Indoor Visits Autumn and Winter 2022

Tuesday 4th October Lancashire Comedians  Dr Tom Preston joins us to talk about the evolution of local comedy by referencing some of the styles of Lancashire comedians of the past. As it is Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Anniversary year we will begin with the wit of Her Majesty, Duke of Lancaster. Tuesday 1st November  Coal Mining in Lancashire… Read More »

Outdoor Visits Summer 2022

Our outdoor visits began Saturday 30 April Milford Junction. Where? Clue: be careful to avoid getting grit in your eye. We were going for a brief encounter at Carnforth Heritage Centre. Part of the film Brief Encounter was filmed at Carnforth Station, named Milford Junction in the film. The visit included lunch – sandwiches, cake and tea/coffee in… Read More »

Ageing Better Showcase

As a follow on from the successful collaboration with Edge Hill University on the  Ageing Better Project, the leaders are holding a showcase event at the University on 11th February 2023. The poster below gives further information. Do please try to attend this interesting and relevant event and bring along friends and family. Book free places via the… Read More »

Social Events

Our u3a provides many opportunities for learning. But we also have a vibrant social dimension to our activities. They bring together people from across a wide range of special interests,  in a convivial atmosphere, simply to enjoy themselves. These excellent events are mostly organised by the Social Subcommittee. There are  usually committee members at the weekly Horizons meetings… Read More »

Healthy Ageing Research

Are you interested in healthy ageing? If so, you may be interested in a study being run at Edge Hill University by one of the PhD Research students, Esteban León Correa. Esteban is still looking for volunteers, and you can read further details in the poster below. If you wish to find out more, email Esteban at correae@edgehill.ac.uk.

Christmas Lunch Party 2022

Once more the Social Subcommittee pulled out all the stops to lay on a superb Christmas Lunch followed by a 60’s/70’s Party – dancing to the music of the talented Roller Coaster Band. Click or tap on any image to run the gallery as a slideshow. View details of the other u3a Events organised by the Social Subcommittee… Read More »

Medieval Cathedrals of  England – 2022 Series

Speakers:     Brian Farrimond – Peter Gateley – Peter Hatfield Anglo Saxon Timeline  can be accessed on this link. March 22, 2022 –  Talk  – Westminster Abbey – Part 1 Westminster Abbey On the site of a Saxon monastery, a large new building in the Norman style was ordered by King Edward the Confessor some time after 1042 and consecrated… Read More »

Horizons Slideshow

At the weekly Horizons coffee morning, we display a rolling slideshow of notices on the big screen in each room. These notices highlight some of the events scheduled for the coming weeks, as well as some general notices and appeals. You can also view the slideshow here even if you didn’t attend the Horizons meeting.

Age UK Winter Resilience

Worried about the cost of living and rising fuel bills? Would you like more information on how to save energy and find out what financial support is available? Age UK Lancashire held an event recently at New Church House in Ormskirk with representatives of Lancashire Fire and Rescue, Electricity North West and Lancs County Council Safe Trader Scheme… Read More »

Choir Sings at September Sunday Social

On 25 Sept 2022, our u3a Choir will be entertaining at the Sunday Social with a wide selection of songs from their repertoire.  There will be plenty of opportunity to sing along too – not to be missed!  Plus, there will be a quiz, after the refreshments break.

Past Social Highlights

2019 Highlights The Annual u3a CHRISTMAS LUNCH (in December at Christ Church Ministry Centre) Although the weather was quite awful outside, those at the Christmas Lunch didn’t really notice – they were generally just too busy enjoying themselves! Click or tap on any photo in the gallery to run it as a full-size presentation. Photos courtesy of Alan… Read More »

Jubilee Summer Dance

We are celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with a Summer Dance at Aughton Village Hall on Saturday 25th June, 6:30 for 7pm. Dancing will be to the 60-70’s music by Roller Coaster.  Supper is provided but bring your own drink and glasses. Tickets at  £15 (non refundable) are available from the Social Subcommittee Desk at Horizons. See the … Read More »

Keep Fit with the u3a

There is a very good range of u3a Groups that offer opportunities to keep fit and active.  See the Groups List and the Groups Schedule for details and contacts. Some have capacity for additional members.  For example, the Web Team have recently been made aware that this is the case for: Aerobics Lite Aerobics to Music with Jo… Read More »

Sunday Socials Soon

Next Sunday Social – all members welcome. Sunday 26th June Bill Evans will be entertaining us with one of his VIDEO shows. Plenty of comedy is assured, but also a sprinkle of serious stuff too. So, sit back and enjoy.

Film Appreciation Restart

The Film Appreciation Group will be restarting on 23rd May at 9.45 for coffee followed by the film which is A Good Year based on the novel by Peter Mayle. See the website Group Page for further details. It is a good film which will take place in the big room. The charge is £2.00.Colin and I look forward to seeing you.… Read More »

Southport Flower Show – Discounted Tickets

Southport u3a are creating a Show Garden at this year’s Southport Flower Show (18 -21 August).  It  will be built and managed by their Gardening Group to celebrate the u3a’s 40th Anniversary. It is the aim to include many aspects of the diverse nature of the u3a as features in the design. Alongside the Show Garden will be… Read More »

Local History Outdoor Visits Restart

Local History outdoor visits restarted on 30th April 2022. Further Information on the Local History  Group Page and from the Local History Desk at Horizons. All members are welcome to our outdoor visits and our indoor meetings. Margaret Gibbon (Group Leader)

Dancing Fools

Musical Theatre Group came back! Thank you for supporting your u3a Musical Theatre Group as they endeavoured to get back to doing shows. The pandemic  hit the group hard, so their numbers  were low by March 2022, but they still had a great show to present to you. Although not a musical, the “restart” production – “Dancing Fools”… Read More »

The Choir is looking for an Assistant Musical Director!

Our present Choir Group musical director, Paul Dickie has successfully led us for the past 18 months and in spite of the challenges of covid we organised and performed the u3a advent service under his direction. However, to secure continuity for the future we would like to bring in someone else with the necessary musical knowledge and creative… Read More »

Indoor Meetings 2021

Tuesday 5th October 2021 – Census and Sensibility Stephen Bennett presented a light hearted look at local history census returns 1841-1911 Tuesday 2nd November  The Co-Operative Retail Business The co-operative selling began in Lancashire, perhaps some members remember their family ‘divi’ number. Stephen Caunce talked about the history of the people’s own shop. Tuesday 7th December 2 15… Read More »

Film Appreciation Returns

The first film of the new season will take place on 25th October in the Scout & Guide HQ in the small room. The film is ‘Revolutionary Road’ with Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. For more details please consult the Film Appreciation Group Page. The film will start at 10.00am preceded by coffee. Please feel free to bring… Read More »

Ukulele Group Plays Again

The Ukulele Group has now restarted! If you fancy joining, then just contact Tony Crimlisk on 01695 421602 for further information.  Beginners are most welcome too, even if you can only play a few chords. If you don’t yet have a Ukulele, then come along and sing with us anyway to see what fun it is and also… Read More »

EGM – 11th October at 1pm

In case you missed reading about it in an email dated 6 September 2021 and sent to all members with email addresses on  Beacon,  here is a special  Message from the Secretary about an Extraordinary General Meeting in October: Dear Member, Due to the Annual General Meeting held on 26.08.21 not being quorate, any votes taken were indicative only.  It is,… Read More »

Gardening Help

Help is needed to run the Gardening Group.  Please contact Pam Higgins on 0151 364 0041. In the meantime, restart has been to defered  till New Year.

Opera Appreciation Restart

The Opera Appreciation Group plans to return on Wednesday 15 September at 1pm at the Scout & Guide HQ  with Puccini’s La Fanciulla del West.

Local History Return

The Local History Group is returning to their indoor meetings at the Scout  & Guide HQ on Tuesday 5th October – 2pm for a 2 15pm start. The topic is “Census and Sensibility”.  A light hearted look at Local History census returns 1841-1911.

Calling All Ten Pin Bowlers

You may have played years ago – why not give it another go? We are very short of members at the moment and we’d love to see new members joining us. It is only once a month! And it is great FUN!!! For full details, please visit our Bowls – Tenpin Group Page on the u3a website.

Friday Pilates Returns

A reminder from Leader Pam Ruscoe to members of her class: The Friday Pilates Group begins this Friday 23rd July at 12.15pm until 1.15pm at the Scout & Guide HQ. The Tuesday class has already recommenced.

A Brief Brush with History

The sun was very hot, as usual, and my dress was long and with full sleeves due to the local custom. I couldn’t wear trousers of course as these were seen as the sign of a woman of ill repute…

Vacant slots at the S&G HQ

This is a list of vacant slots at the S&G HQ during the period up to September 2021. If a Group Leader wishes to book a slot, the best way is to email Group Support. Please note that established lunchtime activities mean that: Morning sessions in the large hall on Monday, Tuesday and Friday must finish by 11:45.… Read More »

Message From Your Retiring Science Group Management Team

We wrote to all Science Group members towards the end of March 2021 to advise that the existing Science Group leaders would be retiring and the group would need new leaders to continue. Thank you to all who replied, many with very complimentary messages, for which we are truly grateful. We ourselves have greatly enjoyed our 12-year tenure… Read More »

Science during Lockdown

We didn’t let Coronavirus shut us down completely! Though we weren’t able to have visiting speakers or arrange visits, we continued to tease you with some armchair science: links to interesting science articles or lectures science quizzes science question and answer system online science discussion To see what we mean, head over to the “Science during Lockdown” page.… Read More »

Members’ Stories

We are very fortunate, this year, to be treated to a series of tales written by members following an initiative from Sue Watkinson, Trustee and  member of Communications Subcommittee. Here are the initial examples, already published in one of the monthly enews of 2021. A day I will never forget by David Wotherspoon:  A loyal football fan enjoys… Read More »

A Mystery Monolith

Mystery monolith in sand dunes near Hightown! The photo is of our son, Michael Ingman, next to the monolith that appeared mid January in Hightown Dunes. The first monolith was discovered in the Utah Desert mid November 2020 after being seen by a pilot from a small plane. It then disappeared with no trace after a few weeks.… Read More »

The Census is coming! 

“Why do I have to complete the census? What information do they want? Is it used for more than just family history research?”
To find out, join this Aughton & Ormskirk u3a Zoom session.

Diana’s Funeral

Diana’s Funeral by Margaret Kitchen Journalists go out on assignments with the intention of observing, questioning and reporting. We don’t go with the idea of expressing our personal opinions. So when, the day before Princess Diana’s funeral, I was boarding the London bound train, I was ambushed by a local TV company asking for my views, I was… Read More »

Signs of Spring

Since entering social isolation started early last year, we have covered the times and seasons in various website ‘galleries’ filling them with items sent in by our talented members. The first lockdown started in March 2020, so we missed late Winter and early Spring. This new Gallery, on the theme of  ‘Signs of Spring’ aims to fill that… Read More »

English Medieval Cathedrals 2021 series

As you know, from looking at the 2020 programme, things did not go as planned last season.  At present (3rd February 2021) it is still impossible to say when meetings in the usual venue will be able to resume.  As soon as there is any clear news of when we can resume, there will be a notification via… Read More »