August 2023 Newsletter

learn, laugh, live! August 2023 No, we haven’t emigrated to mountain climes! Leaders of the summer Music Afternoon in Wistaston have simply been given a bit of an exotic backdrop (just for fun) by photographer Wallace Baxter. Find out more about the music event and its many parts on Pages 4 and 5 ALSO INSIDE: Meet your committee members... take some history lessons and dig into archaeology... a report from our market stall for Societies Day... and a words and pictures special on our live music summer celebration

CONTENTS Summer celebration A live music afternoon at the Memorial Hall...  P4-5 Flights of Fancy Robert Ginder on the joys of flying model aircraft  P6 News from... Wistaston fete... Nantwich Societies Day... the u3a Thursday Tappers charity event... and learn how to play bridge  P8-9 Obituary A tribute to man of many parts David Fishburne  P10 Meet the Committee A look at the people who work tirelessly on our behalf  P11-16 Terrific Trentham Out and about with Local History 1’s visit to Trentham Estate  P17-19 Highly appealing David Duthie on the ancient art of bellringing  P20 Digging up treasure Archaeology Group visits Congleton Museum P21 Poetry Alice Chalwin, a founder We English and our Patron member of the U3A Monday intermediate Saint by Maureen Sawtell P22 line dancing group, celebrated her 96th birthday by dancing the afternoon away. She Member Profile treated the other members of the group to much- appreciated celebratory refreshments. The The amazing Jean Hadlington, class ended with one of Alice’s favourite a 92-year-old brilliant bundle of energy  P23 Editor’s note P24 dances “Rita’s Waltz”. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 2

Message from the Chair... Sue Steele Dear Members, It gives me great pleasure to introduce the Summer 2023 edition of Crewe and Nantwich u3a’s newsletter and to welcome our new Newsletter Editor, Liz Page, to the role. Liz recently joined the u3a team of volunteers, visiting groups along with Eileen Churchman and creating content for the website and Facebook page. She has a background in journalism and has plenty of ideas for the newsletter, whilst also welcoming suggestions and contributions from members. If you have an idea for a future newsletter item, do contact Liz to discuss it. At this time of transition for the newsletter, I’d also like to pay tribute to two former Newsletter Editors. Firstly, I want to thank Adrian Finney for the time and dedication he gave to the role prior to becoming our current Treasurer and for the support given to Liz over the past few months as she moves into her new role. Secondly, we heard the sad news of the death of David Fishburne, who had also fulfilled the role of Newsletter Editor. David had been a member of Crewe and Nantwich u3a since 1998, playing a major role in the organisation. As a fairly recent member myself, I never met David, however I know that many of you will have fond memories of him and will appreciate the tribute in this newsletter, written by Sheila Healey, another long- standing member. Whilst thanking members, I’d like to mention those of you who gave your time to attend the CVSCE Safeguarding and Equality training in June. There were 12 of us squeezed into their office in Crewe and much lively discussion was enjoyed. Thanks are also due to those members who supported and attended our New Members’ Meeting in May and the Musical Afternoon in July. There are far too many to mention individually, however, I do need to say a special thank you to the leaders of the three groups which provided the entertainment – Liz Barfield (Choirs), Christine Bruce (Instrumental Folk) plus Angela Crawford and Su Davidson (Ukelele) and to the Really Useful Group volunteers. Finally, you may have seen some of your committee members hosting stalls at recent local events in order to raise our profile. We know that many of our new members come via personal recommendation, so this seems a good moment to remind you that our membership fee reduces to £5 from 01/07/23 to cover the remainder of the year. What a great opportunity to sample u3a membership for less than the price of two coffees at your local caffeine-touting establishment! Wishing you all a stimulating summer and the opportunity to recoup some energy ready for a fresh start in September. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 3

Music afternoon A summer celebration Words: Liz Page Pictures: Wallace Baxter Acelebration of live music marked the end of term in June – and my, wasn’t it done in style. Three groups, Instrumental Folk, Choir and Ukelele Strummers, entertained a packed Memorial Hall for an afternoon of musical merriment. Chair Sue Steele kicked off proceedings with a few words of welcome while the groups tuned up ready to entertain us. First up were Instrumental Folk, led by Christine Bruce, who explained that the group spent ten years meeting in a kitchen. There are certainly too many people to fit in a kitchen now with a wonderful range of instruments on display including guitars, violin, flute, harp and clarinet. The group’s enjoyable first set was mainly folk music but included three French tunes. Next up were the Choir, led by Liz Barfield and mainly attired in u3a’s yellow and blue brand colours. A wide range of songs ensued, from the deeply moving Jubilate Deo in memory of member Alan White, to Abba’s Super Trouper and Simon & Garfunkel’s Sound of Silence. Then it was the turn of the Ukelele Strummers who raised a laugh when introducing Teenager in Love – if anyone can remember! Again, a wide variety of songs, under the leadership of Susan Davidson and Angela Crawford, including Doris Day’s Deadwood Stage and The Beatles’ Eight Days a Week. Soon it was time for tea, run like a military operation to ensure everyone was served a hot drink and a scone or piece of cake (all delicious!) before it was time for the second half. The Instrumentals and the Choir performed again, before joining forces for a wonderful rendition of Amazing Grace to round off proceedings. Sue then thanked all those involved in organising and helping to run the afternoon and to the audience for their support. As she said in conclusion: ‘A good way of spending a late June afternoon.’ Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 4

Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 5

Hobbies Flights of fancy Robert Ginder on the gentle joys of flying model aircraft Like many others, I enjoyed building and flying model aircraft in my youth and decided to resume this activity to while away the hours during the covid pandemic. I am fortunate in being able to fly in a nearby field (when the cows are absent or in a co-operative mood!) though this is only suitable for fairly small models. I have made several such examples, either from kits or plans available over the internet, using traditional balsa and tissue construction. This results in models weighing only a few ounces, which are surprisingly robust in practice. Many of the designs are 50 or more years old. I generally favour rubber power, though electric propulsion or tow or bungee-launched gliders are alternatives. These are free-flight models, having no on-board guidance system and this limits flight times to about one minute in my small field, except on the calmest days. However it is very satisfying to see your model circling quietly and steadily overhead and then (hopefully) landing safely within the confines of the field. Unfortunately, the latter cannot be guaranteed and models occasionally end up in trees. I have also had a couple of total fly-aways! I also enjoy constructing the models, solving problems that arise, and getting them to fly satisfactorily. This form of aero-modelling seems much less common now than I remember, though radio-control flying, generally with bigger, heavier and more expensive models, seems to be popular. One reason for this is the difficulty of finding suitable large areas where the potential of free-flight models can be realised; many of the sites formerly available (such as redundant airfields) having reverted to agriculture, acquired tree-cover or becoming industrial or housing estates. It is nevertheless a fascinating and rewarding hobby. If there are any other practitioners out there who would like to share their experiences, or members who would like to learn more, I would be pleased to hear from them via the U3A web-site. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 6

u3a matters Future leaders – we need you Sue Steele on succession plannning for group survival As part of the spring-cleaning ritual, themselves as a ‘future leader in training’. Neil Crossley has passed to me some So, I’d like to challenge you all to ponder old newsletters before he starts to over the summer break. If one (or more) digitise them for the website. Amongst of your group leaders were to step down, the newsletters was a timetable from how would you contribute to the survival 2003-’04. Looking through, I noticed of the group? Often, groups evolve into that three of our existing leaders were a different format and sometimes with leading their groups 20 years ago. I am a new name, but they do continue to sure you will all join me in thanking Sue run successfully – our Environment and and Roger Wickson and Chris Creer Wildlife Conservation group being an for their dedication to the members of excellent example and for which we are their Crewe & Nantwich u3a groups... grateful to Ro, Gill and Carole for taking many members will have benefitted, and over the reins and organising their new continue to benefit team approach. from their expertise in I’d like you all to ponder We have started more Embroidery, Medieval over the summer break... if than 25 new groups History and French. since the first Covid Indeed, Roger was ‘my one of your group lockdown, (most of first group leader’ and leaders were to step down, which continue to I was made to feel very how would you contribute to run) however, creating welcome in a group the survival of the group? a new group is not with many members always the best course who are vastly more of action. We do need knowledgeable on the subject than members to consider seriously how I am myself. they can support current leaders and be On a less celebratory note, the committee participants in, rather than consumers of, is aware of the necessity to encourage what is on offer in our u3a. succession planning for group leaders. If you feel you could help with group Some of us are too familiar with the leadership, or indeed would like to rapidity with which life can change support any other aspect of running our drastically and it is good management u3a, please don’t hesitate to contact to think about different circumstances your group leader or any member of the which could arise. Some group deputies committee. volunteer to handle the technical side Thank you. of running their group but would not see Sue Steele, Chair Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 7

News Wistaston Fete We had a stall for the first time at the fete to promote our u3a, organised by Sue Steele, writes Ann-Marie Lloyd. The afternoon was fine and sunny following a couple of showers in the morning. A number of people enquired about what the u3a did and were interested and surprised by all the activities that are available. Although we didn’t sign up any new members on the day, some took away leaflets and programme booklets and we hope we may gain some new members as a result. Sue was there all afternoon and Lynne, Irene, Marian, Bryan, Neil and myself all helped out at various times during an enjoyable afternoon. NEW COMPLETE BEGINNERS COURSE SEPTEMBER 2023 Play your cards right! Learn to play Bridge Always wanted to learn no prior knowledge or skills required or expected: Bridge and join one of our u3a’s many Bridge anyone can learn groups? Then this Absolute Beginners course is the one for you. Led by Anne It’s Armstrong, she will take you and b e n e f i c i a l for your wellbeing through the very basics – but beware! It can become addictive! right through to becoming a confident (Many previous learners now play three or more times a week!) player. But hurry, it’s really important to join the class from the start, this year on September 26th. Researchers have found bridge helps: Apply by visiting the Groups section of the website. � cognitive development � intellectual and social stimulation 8 � memory and sequencing skills � retention of mental sharpness details from Crewe and Nantwich U3A web: candnu3a.org.uk e-mail: [email protected] phone: 07796 510 502 “Bridge is more than just a card game. It’s a cerebral sport. Bridge teaches you logic, reasoning, quick thinking, patience, concentration and partnership skills.” MARTINA NAVRATILOVA Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023

News Happy Feet Ten members of the Thursday Tap Dancing group took part in a nationwide Time To Tap event in aid of the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, raising £100 for this very worthy cause. The event dance was rehearsed in advance during the group’s weekly sessions under the expert tuition of leader Marilyn Bridge. A few intrepid souls even practised at home as well. Nationally, Time to Tap raised over £15,000, every penny going towards the foundation’s nurses, patients, and research programmes. Well done Thursday Tappers! Sociable day Banners and branding to the fore, the u3a stall stood out well at the annual Nantwich Societies Day on July 1st, the first time it has taken place since lockdown. Chair Sue Steele, ably supported by several committee members including Adrian, Ann-Marie, Bryan, Marian and Michael, engaged with members of the public to explain the fantastic volume of classes we have on offer, all for £1.50 a session. As Ann-Marie said: ‘You can’t get a coffee for £1.50!’ A successful day and no doubt we’ll be back next year. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 9

Obituary A man of many parts Sheila Healey pays tribute to David Fishburne It is with sadness that I am writing to replace hand-written paper versions. He advise members of our u3a who knew also set up the Today’s World group which David that he passed away peacefully on addresses topical subjects, a group that May 13th this year. still operates under the leadership of Dr Here is just a little of David’s 26-year Bryan Roe. David also helped to start up membership history: the Fitness Group at Shavington. In 1996 David, a qualified engineer at that In 2002 David successfully negotiated time working for Thames Water, decided to retire and move the with the Inland Revenue for our u3a family from Farnborough to to receive Gift Aid. He was a very Nantwich, actually next door busy man on our behalf. to his brother. During this period our u3a The following year David was notified by head office and his wife Marion in London that we had the joined the u3a at the highest growth rate of any Annual Enrolment Day u3a, at a rate of 30.7%. in September. From that Another memorable moment day on, David became a was the receiving of the natural ambassador for our Mayor’s award for the best u3a, initially joining Finance and Club. rapidly became group leader of a In 2011 David took over the role of walking group. He also supported Table Tennis and the Newsletter Editor, cajoling members Wine Appreciation Group. David never to write articles, no matter how small, for thought of himself, only the activities the Newsletter. that could be introduced for the benefit I should imagine by now you may be of fellow u3a members. He also believed thinking that David had a full life with that everyone has a hidden talent ready family and the u3a - if you are, you would to be released when all their family be wrong. He was also a member of commitments have been successfully the Rotary Club and the National Trust, achieved. enjoying days out and holidays. In 1998 David took on the mantle of On March 3rd this year David and Membership Secretary, a position he held Marion celebrated their Golden Wedding for ten years. During his tenure, David put Anniversary with their son Andy, wife all members’ names on to a database to Susie and granddaughter Kitty. He will be sadly missed by our u3a and his family and many friends. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 10

Meet the committee Newsletter is pleased to introduce the people who work tirelessly on your behalf to ensure our u3a runs smoothly. Read their profiles below, beginning with Chair and Development Officer Sue Steele Pictured from L-R Bryan Roe, Peter Brook, Lynne Jones, Michael Taylor, Sue Steele, Neil Crossley, Irene Dixon, Marian Simmons, Ann-Marie Lloyd, Nigel Bahrani. Not pictured, Adrian Finney and Jenny Jinkinson. Committee pictures by Mike Wilson Sue Steele, Chair and Development Officer What is your u3a history? Joined in December 2019 after speaking to another member. Mediaeval History was my first group and I was welcomed by all, especially the leader, Roger Wickson. As we went into lockdown three months later, my activities stalled until Judith Ross and Chris Maughan put out a plea for new committee members. I was co-opted onto the committee in November 2020, over Googlemeet, along with Lynne Jones. The first year or so was frustrating but also an opportunity to work creatively as we were stop-start with activities due to the on-off lockdowns. It was an interesting period in which to become a trustee. I decided to lead a group which would run differently - the evening, online Book Chat group. I am happy to say this group continues to meet online - we are just transitioning to a new leader and continue to read to different themes for each meeting. I am also a member of Art Appreciation and History of Art and Architecture - both subjects about which I am fairly ignorant so I am F challenging my grey cells.  Crewe & Nantwich u3a AuAgugsut s2t0220323 A11

What did you do during your working life? I worked as a teacher of French, Spanish and English across all phases of education, but I loved teaching adults as many were so grateful to have the opportunity to learn a foreign language. After being widowed, I left education and worked as a project leader in a social enterprise, supporting and advising unpaid carers of those with life limiting illnesses/conditions. What are your other interests? I love reading, both fiction and non-fiction. I volunteer with a local bereavement support group which occupies much of my free time and I am slowly trying to get back into walking after a knee injury. What do you see as the priorities for our u3a? As costs rise, we need to ensure we are financially healthy and able to face an uncertain economic future. Part of this will be attracting new members, particularly members who are willing to contribute to the u3a beyond their own groups. But I’d also like to see more existing members considering how they could use their skills/talents in the wider u3a context. There are many hidden gifts ‘out there’ which could contribute to our u3a. Best thing about being part of our u3a? All our members – the learning, laughing and living is great, but without our members, we don’t exist! Nigel Hamid Bahrani, Events and Bridge groups co-ordinator What is your u3a history? Integration of various Participate in Bridge groups. Previously groups in joint Art group. activities. Encourage What did you do during your working life? more diversity. Mainly engineering and construction. Best thing about What are your other interests? being part of our Agriculture, wildlife and socialising. u3a? What do you see as the priorities Meeting like-minded people and sharing for our u3a? various conversations. Adrian Finney, Treasurer, Group ‘O’ co-ordinator What is your u3a What are your other interests? history? Model Railways. Local History LH1, What do you see as the priorities Newsletter Editor. for our u3a? What did you Getting newly retired members to remain do during your in the organisation. working life? Best thing about being part of our u3a? Designed Chips for TVs and Mobile. Always something interesting to do... Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 12

Peter Brook, responsible for Bookings What is your u3a What are your other interests? history? Various sports including lifelong Huddersfield Previous Treasurer Town supporter. Family and enjoying life 2020 to 2023; Member generally. of Local History 1, What do you see as the priorities for our u3a? Genealogy and previously To increase diversity, encouraging people Wine Appreciation. of all walks of life to meet and understand What did you do during your working life? the impacts of events on people in different Civil Engineer mainly involved in Local situations. Authority Highways and Sewerage. It involved Best thing about being part of our u3a? public consultation, committee meetings and There is always somebody with a different budget management – all useful now. view point who will challenge perceived views. Neil Crossley, Webmaster responsible for managing our website What is your u3a history? What are your other Currently in Cycling, Badminton, Today’s interests? World and one of the leaders of the Friday Reading, listening to Computing Help Drop In. music, walking, yoga What did you do during and keep fit. your working life? What do you see as the Originally a Heavy Truck Development priorities for our u3a? Engineer but found computers and especially Ensuring that we stay solvent and continue large databases were more interesting. Last to attract new members particularly ones employed role was Aftermarket IT Manager. altruistic and dedicated enough to become My interest in databases has come in useful to group leaders. manage our website. Best thing about being part of our u3a? Sharing knowledge and friendship. Irene Dixon, Minutes Secretary, groups co-ordinator for Crafts What is your u3a What are your other interests? history? Walking, cooking, helping with grandchildren. No previous What do you see as the priorities Committee positions. for our u3a? Member of Craft 1 and Having a varied programme of activities for our Craft 3 groups, Yoga/ members and to look after our leaders who Fitness. Was a member of run the groups. Line Dancing (closed now). Best thing about being part of our u3a? What did you do during Social interaction as well as enjoying making your working life? things/exercising. Management Accounts/Finance Director. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 13

Jenny Jinkinson, Co-opted member in a supportive role What is your u3a history? gardening, being I’ve been a member of our C and N u3a outdoors (going out), for some time, probably about 12 or 13 theatre, music and years, taking part in many different groups talking with people such as Sewing, Scottish Dancing, Keep and hearing their Fit and more. Now I am still in our Local stories. History 1 group, one of the first I joined, What do you see as the and in the choir, Sharing Shakespeare and priorities for our u3a? the Ecology, Conservation and Wildlife I see the social benefits that u3a offers group. I have led groups and been deputy as a priority. We are a diverse ‘population’ of others and have helped with the social and the many different groups offer side of things over several years. many different learning opportunities, What did you do during your working life? which is excellent. But the chance to mix I was a nursery school teacher mainly with others and have shared time and in Sheffield, and also worked as a experiences is the biggest benefit of the relationship counsellor. I felt privileged to u3a I think. Without the ‘organisers’ on all work in both professions and value the the various levels, it would collapse and insights and understanding I gained from leave so many of us feeling lonely and both. isolated. What are your other interests? Best thing about being part of our u3a? I very much enjoy family times, reading, See the above! Lynne Jones, Vice Chair 1, Membership and Enquiries Secretary What is your u3a initially as telesales supervisor, then history? running an office including taking orders Joined the u3a in and processing and arranging timely 2015. Initially joined deliveries and all office paperwork. Then Anthropology and became a quality manager ensuring all Philosophy, and 1 Craft food was fit for human consumption. group. Since joined 2 What are your other interests? more Craft groups, Line dancing, Fit Suite, Travel, reading, family and friends. and Motown Movers, also a member of What do you see as the priorities the Computer drop in. I now provide for our u3a? support and back up to the Chair, oversee Ensure that the u3a continues and to help all membership applications and am promote said u3a. responsible for all enquiries. Best thing about being part of our u3a? What did you do during Meeting people and getting the chance to your working life? help out wherever possible. I spent over 40 years in the dairy industry, Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 14

Ann-Marie Lloyd, Vice Chair 2, acting as New Member Liaison officer What is your u3a history? to name a few and I used to be a member of the Genealogy I’m also a keen and Fitness groups. I’m currently a member of the member of the LH1 Local History, Social National Trust. I Activities and run the Team Quiz group enjoy meeting and with my husband Barrie. socialising with new What did you do during your working life? people. I was born and grew up in South What do you see as Manchester but have lived in various the priorities for our u3a? parts of Cheshire since the 1970s and Looking after and maintaining groups moved to Nantwich in 1999. Since leaving and membership. Making sure we are school I worked for the head offices of financially viable and ensuring the future several large companies including Ciba- of our u3a. Geigy, Amec plc, Brunner Mond and also Best thing about being part of our u3a? McCann-Erickson Advertising agency. I enjoy the groups I’m in, my role of New My long career was working in accounts Member Liaison Officer and working with which I did up to accountancy level. the other members of the Committee. What are your other interests? Travel, music, soft furnishings and baking Find out how to contact your committee members... Page 24 Dr Bryan Roe, Levies Collector (checking banking group levies) What is your u3a International Nickel, Perkins Engines and history? Rolls Royce Bentley Motor Cars. Previously chairman, What are your other interests? vice chairman. Now Rambling, computing, woodworking and levies collector, group leader Today’s languages. World and member Table Tennis and What do you see as the priorities Badminton. for our u3a? What did you do during Ensure engagement with members. Look your working life? for new activities. Profession: Metallurgist. Senior Best thing about being part of our u3a? Engineering Manager, three companies: Companionship. Passing on Experience to fellow members. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 15

Marian Simmons, Secretary What is your u3a history? organising, I hope Joined u3a in January 2015. My first class to bring this to my was Post Beginners Spanish. In more Committee role. recent years I have been a member of What are your other the Flower Arranging and Ukulele Groups. interests? Currently I lead the Spanish Improvers I like watching cricket class and belong to the Choir and and Manchester Motown Movers. I hope to get back to United. I love dancing, reading and Flower Arranging if I have time! I joined attending St Chad’s Church in Wybunbury. the Committee in 2022 and became What do you see as the priorities Secretary at the same time. Organise for our u3a? Committee Meetings, prepare agendas I think our main priority is that we and circulate minutes and upload to keep going. In order to do this we need the website. Organise the AGM, prepare members to take an active role in the voting instructions for members, organisation as a whole. We need to distribute reports beforehand. Update our constantly recruit new members and to branch details on Charities Commission make them feel welcome. We also need to and Third Age Trust websites. ensure that our Group Leaders feel valued What did you do during your working life? and listened to. For over 20 years I worked in sales and Best thing about being part of our u3a? marketing in the motor parts industry, the For me, the best part has been meeting last 11 as Sales and Marketing Manager. new people. I’ve made many friends In 2000 I moved to Wybunbury with my through being involved with different husband where we ran the post office types of groups whilst at the same time and shop. My skills are planning and learning new skills. Michael Taylor, IT Support Secondary Administrator for U3A Website and Google Workspace What is your u3a history? Membership: Local History, Photography and Digital Photography for Improvers (from September 2023). What did you do during your working life? Civil Engineering (5 years) and IT (35 years). Last 20 years working for Telecoms Service Provider supplying: VOIP, security, local area and wide area networking to corporate customers. What are your other interests? Travel, DIY, rambling, improving health and fitness. What do you see as the priorities for our u3a? To grow membership participation through collaboration with neighbouring U3A Groups. Best thing about being part of our u3a? Mental stimulation. Enjoyment through membership of like-minded communities. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 16

Out and about Terrific Trentham! Local History 1 members enjoyed a social history tour of the Trentham Estate in June. Report by Michael Taylor Armed with a Medieval map, annotated by event guide David Cooke, our tour started at the junction of Stone Road (A34) and Park Drive and led down the drive alongside Trentham Village towards the Smithy. At this point the only surviving estate property is the Mausoleum build by the 1st Duke of Sutherland in 1807. Only seven of its twenty-six catacombs were ever occupied. It remains the only Grade 1 Listed building in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. A brief stop at the Pack Horse bridge spanning the River Trent gave David the opportunity to discuss the Poulterers House and four pavilions built to host cock fighting. Their completion was preceded by a change in the law banning this cruel sport; consequently, it was repurposed to breed exotic birds and common poultry used to feed occupants of Trentham Hall. Much of the estate was architected by Charles Barry; his designs brought a strong Italian influence to the estate that remains visible today. The Sutherland Family were very commercially savvy and used spare land adjacent to the River Trent to grow willow for sale into the pottery industry for making baskets used to carry pottery products. Finally, we passed four Fish Stews (from the French estuier meaning to keep or enclose) used for breeding fish for estate consumption. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 17

Home Farm was the hub of the estate. of all. The presence of the railway in 1848 During the 1980s the National Coal Board increased accessibility and popularity took ownership and refurbished this part of the annual opening. Local inhabitants of the estate for commercial benefit to living between the railway station and the a very high standard. The first building estate saw an opportunity for commercial hosted the important brewery. Raised gain and set out tables and chairs in front eyebrows followed by fits of laughter arose gardens to entertain passers-by. when David announced that the school mistress earned a daily allowance of eight The morning session ended with a quarts of beer. The presence of a Stewards visit to remnants of Trentham Hall. The House indicates that the estate possessed dilapidated Estate Office still contains household servants of higher ranking than a very large safe resembling a gaol that those solely reliant upon a Butler. could only be unlocked from the inside. Fortunately, there were no budding The Smithy is marked locksmiths amongst the visiting party! with a Horse Shoe entrance and Flame. After a short lunch-time break, During the First World David took a small War Abraham Clay group on an anti- became very popular retail-therapy with the Army through walk around the teaching farriery Kitchen Garden (blacksmith) recruits housed within the art of making the Blue Diamond horseshoes for the owner Trentham front. Indeed, he was the Garden Centre. last blacksmith to occupy the Smithy. The Estate Bothy was home to young The estate was too far away from Etruria Estate Gardeners. The to take gas economically; instead, a local Gas House and holder was built and Duke of Sutherland paid great attention fuelled with local coal; however, supply was to his gardeners’ welfare, supplying both only piped into the hall and church. education and a library of books. Adjacent to the Gas House was a quarry A Childrens Cottage was built next that was converted into an Ice House to the Bothy. From the Hall, the house stocked with straw separated plates of ice was reached using a pull boat drawn by during the winter by otherwise dormant nursery maids across the River Trent. The gardeners. This kept the estate stocked cottage was originally designed by Charles with ice throughout the entire winter. Barry in 1840 and later remodelled by Thomas Roberts the Estate Architect. Trentham Park gates remain closed bar for one day a year, “Trentham Thursday”, Fits of laughter arose when during “Wakes Week”. The inaugural David announced that the opening attracted 60,000 visitors; all were school mistress earned a daily refused entry through the small gate until allowance of eight quarts of beer the appointed time – testing the patience Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 18

TRENTHAM TREASURES: The children’s cottage, left and the Smithy, right, commemorative tiles in the church, below and, opposite page, the estate bothy The afternoon largely focused on a visit Amongst many more prominent artifacts to Trentham Parish Church. As a Celtic the church hosts a wall of commemorative princess, St Werburgh founded a place tiles remembering local people who of worship and a Nunnery in 680 AD. contributed to estate life, manufactured Having died in Hanbury, her coffin was by Herbert Minton. brought to back to Trentham to escape the marauding Danes (875AD) en route to After exploring the Trentham Estate Chester Cathedral. Italian gardens, sculpted by Charles Barry and George Fleming, and landscaped by She was laid to rest for a few days on Capability Brown, our tour drew to a close. the stone in front of the Penitential Cross fronting the church. Legend has it that Thank you to Jean, David, and Brian she healed a dismembered goose; hence driving overflow members to Trentham it became a symbol that amongst others and thank you to the Trentham Parish signposts the Two Saints Way; a pilgrimage Church RUGs led by Anne and Wendy who route linking cathedral cities of Lichfield also provided an excellent historical talk. and Chester. However, very special thank you goes to David Cooke, who although well practised The remainder of the tour, inside the in leading informative walks, remained the Parish church, was fronted by their very day’s shining light. own RUG: Anne, Wendy, Lesley and Karen. It indeed included light refreshments and Finally, it’s the membership of Local was very much appreciated by all. History 1, and the superb weather, that made this day possible... thank you. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 19

Highly appealing David Duthie on the ancient art of bell ringing Some of us may have heard church bells ringing over the weekend of towers now are usually hung for ‘full circle the King’s Coronation, or even been ringing’ when the bell is able to be swung in a full circle before being swung in the ringing the bells, and if not then everyone opposite direction, the bell sounding once will have heard church bells ringing at in each swing. This gives the bell ringer sometime or another. Bells have been control over the speed of the bell and is rung for centuries and have been used to known as change ringing. summon people to worship on Sundays. Some bell towers have as many as Modern bell ringing also celebrates sixteen bells although six or eight is weddings and other special much more common. Each bell will occasions, bells are also have its own ringer who controls rung as a mark of respect the speed of their bell and this when someone dies, in enables the order in which the this case ‘half muffled’ to bells in a tower sound to be deaden the sound of each controlled so that the order of bell’s second chime. Early the bells change each round bell ringing was a very (a round is when each bell simple affair, either the bell sounds once) and this is known was swung though a short arc, as ‘Method Ringing’. Bell ringing is rather like a child’s swing, with the a sociable activity which requires team bell sounding as the bell swung in each work, it doesn’t need great strength as it direction. The bell ringer had little control is mostly about bell control, but it does over the speed of chiming the bell. Other require concentration.  bells were static, with the bell being struck Sadly some churches don’t have any bell by a hammer to make the sound and this ringers and their bells become unringable method is often used to ring the time on either through lack of use or lack of church clocks. maintenance but most towers have a band It is also how carillons are rung. Bell and they hold weekly practise nights when ringing as we know it today is almost prospective new ringers and visitors are unique to the UK. The bells in church always welcome. COULD YOU HELP 0UT THE ROTARY CLUB? Nantwich Rotary Club needs volunteers to help with two fundraising events. The club runs car parking at the Barony Park during the September food festival, the proceeds going to beneficiaries such as Ukrainian refugees. In December, the Santa Christmas float is taken around Nantwich so that children can see Santa for free or for a small donation. Proceeds go to local causes such as St Luke’s Hospice and the Nantwich Food Bank. If you can help with either event please contact u3a member John Meadows at [email protected] Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 20

Out and about Archaeology group digs up real treasure in Congleton Museum On 10th May some of the Archaeology Museum’s archives they hold original group went on an organised visit to Town Charters linked to Congleton and Congleton Museum. It is a small but surrounding parts of Cheshire. These very interesting museum and well are not on display but available to view worth a visit. if requested. During our time there we looked at This was followed by a town walk the gallery where bronze age artifacts, where our guide and museum manager and coins covering centuries are on Ian Doughty expanded upon some of display. The museum is currently the terms used in the ancient charters cataloguing and archiving nearly with regard to the black and white 7,000 Roman coins which are part of timbered buildings in the town. the Peover Hoard. These coins date across the Third Century and we All in all a busy but interesting visit to were able to see and handle them as a town within a 35 minute drive from part of our visit. Also, as part of the Nantwich – on our doorstep! Find out more about the Archaeology group – and other interests that might grab you – on the Groups section of our website Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 21

Poetry We English and our Patron Saint – by Maureen Sawtell Shakespeare’s Henry V cried God for Harry, England and St George Immortalised after his victory over the French at Agincourt. In 1944 Laurence Olivier brought Henry to the silver screen Riding ahead of his troops, St George’s banner blowing to and fro, Designed as a call to arms in World War Two, As once again English troops were fighting and dying in the fields of France Trying to liberate her from a deadly and defiant foe. Come peacetime, war weary Britain was still a desolate place, Bombed out buildings and rationing did nothing to raise the people’s morale A royal wedding and later a coronation raised some spirits With thousands of the Union flag decorating our streets and the Mall. But the England flag of St George wasn’t among my souvenirs to save It was mainly the Royal Navy flying the White Ensign above the waves. It wasn’t always so..... In 1350 Edward 111 made him patron Saint of England for his courage and bravery And for the new Order of the Knights of the Garter, Still the UK’s highest order of chivalry After Agincourt devotion to the saint grew stronger With Plantagenet Kings of England wearing his colours as the norm And Henry V111 incorporating them in his army’s uniform 1707 saw the Union of England and Scotland and devotion to our Saint on the wane. A Union flag was born from England s red & white cross and the Scottish Saltire. But since 2010 world cup, followed by Olympic and Commonwealth Games The flag of England and St George was widely flown again Soon legions of England fans would carry it for our National teams As they cheer on England in football and rugby’s fields of dreams Today there’s the Lord Mayor’s St George’s Day festival in Trafalgar Square An annual free show for feasting and frolicking and generally having fun But where is St George in all this fervour Has this martyr’s courage and bravery somehow lost our favour Surely we can still make the connections Celebrating whilst keeping him in the nation’s affection The knights of the Garter still process for all to see And the George Cross and Medal are still awarded for conspicuous bravery Awarded to Malta in1942 for withstanding the siege by Italy & Germany So on his feast day, Will Shakespeare’s birthday And soon the crowning of a new king Let’s be of good cheer and with good intentions to forge As we proudly cry God for Charles, England and St George. Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 22

Member profile Words: Liz Page Portrait: Eileen Churchman Our u3a is full of great characters and Jean Hadlington certainly fits the bill. A redoubtable 92 years young, Jean’s drive, insights and humour put people 30 years younger to shame (including your trusty editor). Over lunch at the Tea Lounge in Nantwich with fellow u3a member Eileen Churchman, Jean kept us entertained with accounts of her current activities and recollections of the early days of our u3a. The Crewe &Nantwich u3a’s first enrolment day took place in March 1995 at the parish hall in Nantwich and 52 people signed up. The first group meetings took place the following month. Jean recalls that she’d never heard of the u3a until an over 50s activity club in the Civic Hall invited people to show what they did in the area. The day included a keep fit show, a fashion parade and lots of other stalls, one of which had u3a leaflets. On inquiry Jean was told that if you have a skill you start a meeting at home – our u3a really did start small. She joined a walking group, doing round trips up to 30 miles. ‘People then retired earlier and were fitter, went further and faster,’ she laughs. As a recently retired swimming teacher, no doubt Jean was fitter than most, and she confides that she also thoroughly enjoyed the Keep Fit group, taking the class when the teacher was away. Local history and a dance group were other interests. What inspired Jean to join the u3a? She explains that she had recently retired and was a widow, having not lived locally all that long at the time. Her husband had moved around with his work on the railways, previous homes being in Whitchurch and Congleton. So the u3a offered a great chance to take part in enjoyable activities and make new friends. Jean is still an active member of the Modern Sequence dance group (‘I can dance the male part as well’, she laughs), the Environment and Conservation Group and MOTO, the social outings group for members on their own. Although she has walked all her life since the age of six, Jean says distance is more of an issue these days so she now takes part in the Short Walks 1 group led by Sue Lee. Gardening and bowling are two more of Jean’s hobbies. All too soon, our lunch was over because Jean was in a hurry to get to her next appointment – at the gym of course. We bade farewell and left feeling uplifted after having been in the company of such a remarkable person. Would you like to suggest someone for a Member Profile in a future Newsletter? Please contact [email protected] Crewe & Nantwich u3a August 2023 23

Committee Contacts Sue Steele [email protected] Sue Steele [email protected] Lynne Jones [email protected] Lynne Jones [email protected] Ann-Marie Lloyd [email protected] Ann-Marie Lloyd [email protected] Marian Simmons [email protected] Adrian Finney [email protected] Peter Brook [email protected] Neil Crossley [email protected] Michael Taylor [email protected] Irene Dixon [email protected] Nigel Bharani [email protected] Dr Bryan Roe [email protected] Jenny Jinkinson [email protected] Meet the committee members – Pages 11-16 Message from the Editor We hope you enjoyed this edition of the newsletter. Big thanks to everyone who contributed words, pictures, page design, proofreading or IT skills to create an entertaining and informative read. The next newsletter will be published in early December and contributions are welcome, particularly reports and pictures featuring our members taking part in activities or outings. General interest articles are also welcome, but please contact editor Liz Page in advance to discuss word length. All enquiries should be addressed to [email protected] Deadline for December edition: November 20th 2023 Visit our Website: www.candnu3a.org.uk u3a national website: www.u3a.org.uk