The first ever sponsored walk by Ferndown U3A was completed yesterday by almost 50 people – and some family members. Everyone who took part,either as a walker or one of the essential helpers, had a brilliant time – especially those who reached the Star Inn in Ringwood, some 7 hours after leaving Upton Country Park. It was so encouraging to see people stretching themselves to walk much further than they had anticipated – 16 managed the entire 17 miles! This just goes to show that age is no barrier to having a go!

It is not too late show your support for all those who took part by making a donation to our Charity of the Year – The Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. All contributions should be given in to Gerry at the Open Day on May 17th at the Barrington Centre.

Clare Clayton

The visit to the Old Operating Theatre turned out to be more interesting than envisaged; challenges included ascending and descending a very narrow, stone, spiral staircase of 51 steps, a  broken lift and a venue with no public toilets!, (can you believe it)?

Fortunately Ferndown U3A members are not faint-hearted.  All problems were overcome and everyone seemed to have enjoyed the experience even Thelma Poole whose leg was removed and rapidly attached without anaesthetic!

The Postal Museum was only opened in 2017 so is very modern and attractively organised, completely opposite to the 19^th century Mail Rail which we visited next.  We went down under the London streets and folded ourselves into the small carriages to see how the post used to travel.  It was a short but unique journey for us all – a worthwhile visit.

March 29th 2019

27 members went “overseas” to Brownsea Island yesterday with the U3A J1 Discovering Wessex Group. It was a great day with brilliant weather.

The trip was arranged by Derek Holden who acted as our guide for the day making the walk even more interesting with some beautiful scenery and views.

The island is where the very first scout camp was held August 1907. There is a permanent camp there now visited by scout from all around the world – even Christchurch.
The group all enjoyed the day with some excellent coffee and lunch and some rare close up visits by the scrounging resident Peacocks

> Keith Banks – Leader – J1 Discovering Wessex