Limebrook u3a Publicity Coordinator Brian Harris looks back on another active month for the Maldon-based community group...

The ethos of u3a is to Learn, Laugh and Live. Members of Limebrook u3a have been enjoying the company of like-minded people who have a common interest via our various Groups.

Terry Wood helps those who wish to improve their French and says: "We have been practising asking for directions in the street and then answering them accurately. We have talked about different types of holidays and learning how to interpret the ten most common French gestures."

The Walking Group for the Friday walk, when the weather was dry. (Credit: Limebrook u3a)

Members of the Garden Chat group toured the Browning Road Corner Garden, part of Maldon RHS Voluntary Community Gardens and the U3A Gardens at the Prom. The trip was organised by Meryl Rawlings.

Sue Thomson explained the history of the Browning Road Gardens: "The RHS had an initiative called 'Green up Your Grotty Area' and the Browning Road Corner was identified. It was a mess of brambles elderberries and rubbish. A group of neighbours formed a working party and cleared it then planted bulbs, plants and shrubs donated by residents, a small nursery and members of the u3a.We installed a seat which is well used and appreciated by everyone. This year, we won a Gold and 'Best in Category' at the Maldon In Bloom competition!"

The Walking Group for the Monday walk when it rained. (Limebrook u3a)

Dedham Vale was the location for the Walking Group where Jo Madge arranged for two sessions. One of four-mile session was led by her husband Paul, while Jo led a walk of approximately seven miles. Due to demand, they repeated this with one outing enjoying perfect weather on the Friday. Unfortunately, the Monday group had to persevere through rain. On both days, they had an enjoyable lunch at The Boatyard in Dedham.

BEFORE AND AFTER: Drag the white slider left and right to see how Peter Thorpe edited his image on the theme of 'Architecture'.

The newly formed second Social Science Group has Mary Dove coordinating their sessions, with the help of others taking on key roles. With 10 people already involved, it is fulfilling a need as we expand the offerings to our members.

Phil Davies' image of the cloisters at Canterbury Cathedral earned him third place in the Photography competition. (Credit: Limebrook u3a)

Graham Churchill organised the monthly Photography Competition on the theme of 'Architecture'. Brian Harris achieved the most votes using Quinlan Court in Danbury as his subject.

Brian Harris' image earned him first place. (Credit: Limebrook u3a)

Second place was Edwina Ord and joint third Phil Davies and Paul Madge. The Amended Images Competition saw Peter Thorpe win with his photograph taken in Maldon. The meeting at the URC Hall in Maldon was well attended and Jill McGregor of Heybridge u3a provide an excellent talk on her experience and this was illustrated by her wild life photography. The subjects ranged from rare birds and big cats taken in exotic locations.

Brian Harris received the Photography Trophy from Phil Davies. (Credit: Limebrook u3a)

Each month, we have a speaker at the West Maldon Community Centre. This gives members the opportunity to meet friends and learn about the various activities and pastimes provided. Maldon has four u3a's in the area. To learn more, visit the Limebrook u3a website.

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