Brian Harris, from Maldon's Limebrook u3a, shares all the news from the group in this month's newsletter.

"Limebrook u3a has had another busy month. We had a highly informative presentation from Lisa Mitson the Community Safety Officer for the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. Her talk could very well save lives and amongst her tips, recommends that we unplug our kettles at the socket after each use. It is extremely dangerous to charge your mobile phone at night when you are asleep and remember to check your smoke detectors each month. If the detector is over 10 years old, it should be changed for a new one.

"The AGM followed and the Chairman Brian Harris and Treasurer, Keith Parrott gave their reports. Limebrook has increased its active membership and are now at levels above those prior to the pandemic. Our finances are in excellent shape, and we are maintaining our membership fee at the level set 10 years ago. The Chairman thanked the Committee, the Interest Group Leaders and all the membership for making the 2021 - 2022 year such a success.

"On the May 14 we held an Open Day at the Maldon Town Hall. Our Interest Group Leaders and Committee were on hand to share the benefits of the u3a for people who are no longer in full time employment. It was a big success with 14 new members joining on the day and others taking away information and an invitation to join us at our next meeting on Friday the 10th of June at the West Maldon Community Centre.

"One of the Group Leaders at the Open Day was Mike Stringer the Group Leader for History and here in his own words are details of their May meeting.

"For the first time in over two years, our history group went on a trip! We made the journey to Bury St Edmunds, a town steeped in history and with a very impressive cathedral. We made the journey by car share which is likely to be our favoured method of transport, at least for the time being.

"After lunch, an hour was spent inside the Guildhall, the original of which dates to the 11th century. Although now mainly used for functions, we were "introduced" - through their canvass portraits - to some of the good and great of Bury. We also saw a recreated RAF control centre, which was operational during the second World War, and a herb garden designed to reflect what the monks themselves may have been used to. Our afternoon ended with a cream tea, and for some of us, a cheeky ice cream!

"Our group thoroughly enjoyed our day out and we now look forward to our next visit, a day out in Saffron Walden"

"The theme for the Photography Group was to take pictures of Windows. First place went to Phil Davies with his image of an old hand pump set against a dusty looking window. Second place saw a bright blue window taken by Jo Madge. Next month we shall be voting on the visit to Call of the Wild Zoo. This is better known by its previous name Tropical Wings.

"Our Book Lovers are in full swing with "Girl Women Other" being under review and we are pleased that Jill Gooding has taken on the role of organising their monthly meetings.

"Whether you enjoy trips and outings, or less active pastimes such as Social Science, Family History, French Conversation, Poetry, Needlecraft, and many more, there is a lot to choose from!

"Find out more about Limebrook u3a by visiting the website.

Tim & Sandra Stubbins

"Our Membership Secretary Team of Tim & Sandra Stubbins can be contacted on 01621 855 158. They will be pleased to invite you as a guest to one of our meetings. You could then meet us and see why Limebrook is such a friendly place for people who wish to Learn, Laugh and Live."