NEWS for ...
Petersfield u3a members

Welcome to our latest e-newsletter, which gives a quick summary of what’s happening at Petersfield u3a. To find out more, click the blue links to go straight to our website.

Your attendance is welcome and vital, as we need at least 80 members present to have a quorum. Following member feedback, we've refreshed the format to include more time for questions, updates on upcoming events, and showcasing some groups’ activities. The AGM will be held at the Petersfield Community Centre and will be followed by an opportunity to mingle with other members and enjoy tea and cake.
Please see the u3a website for AGM details, including the agenda and nomination form, if you wish to nominate someone to join the Management Committee. Click here for details.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Dates for your Diary

2 pm - Tuesday 27 October
In 1929, Edwin Hubble established a correlation between galactic redshift and distance. For nearly a century, the prevailing scientific consensus has attributed this redshift to cosmic expansion, forming the foundation of the Big Bang theory. However, recent data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have introduced observations that challenge standard cosmological models. David Youll, PhD., a keen researcher in this field, examines anomalies in the Big Bang theory and other views on the origin of our universe. Enjoy this fascinating presentation at the Petersfield Community Centre.

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4.30–5.30 pm - Wednesday 4 November
Science and technology – Hands-on Science Workshop at Churcher's College, Science Block. This term's workshop will cover a Chemistry topic: “Perfumes from Plants.” We will be extracting essential oils from plants, so please bring a small bottle or two to take a sample home. Everyone is welcome, and no prior scientific knowledge is required. Reserve your free place and find out more from Lin Piatek before 26 October 2026. Tea, coffee & biscuits supplied by Churcher's for early arrivals.

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2 pm -Tuesday 17 November
Health matters – Microplastics: What and where they are, and why they matter
Professor Fay Couteiro, Professor of Environmental Pollution at the University of Portsmouth, leads the University's Microplastics Research Group, which aims to establish the impacts of microplastics on the environment and human health. Plastic breaks down into tiny particles known as microplastics, creating a new, widespread environmental challenge. These particles are now found almost everywhere, from the deepest oceans and remote mountain regions to the food we eat and the air we breathe. Professor Couterio will explore why these tiny particles have become a global concern, what scientists currently know about their impacts, and the practical steps individuals, industry, and society can take to reduce pollution and limit exposure.

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2.30 pm - 18 November
Rocking Surrey: A History of Suburban Rock ‘n’ Roll
Neil Mach, an internationally recognised author, journalist, and music-industry podcaster, uncovers surprising connections between Rock 'n' Roll and Surrey. The leafy suburb has been home to the world’s greatest musicians, from punk rock legends to progressive rock heroes; the three 'greatest' blues guitarists in the world came from the County, and supergroups like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones made Surrey their home. This talk will make audiences laugh and reminisce about the 'Golden Years of Rock 'n' Roll'.

Around and about

Members of Wine Appreciation Group 3,  together with a few other u3a friends, recently enjoyed our annual trip out with a visit to The Tasting Barn, near Cheriton.  We were met by a charming and very knowledgeable lady who showed us the nearby vineyard where the ripe grapes were due to be picked – a good harvest is anticipated following an excellent summer for grapes. The Tasting Barn is part of the Raimes family vineyard where they produce several types of English sparkling wine, and we later tasted three of their products, which were delicious. The photo was taken before the wine arrived, but it’s fair to say that the smiles became even broader.  This was followed by a pleasant lunch in Alresford. Monthly meetings have resumed.

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Interest Hub News - Learning Grants Awarded!
Congratulations to the 13 groups awarded funding to carry out a range of innovative projects this year; we look forward to hearing how these progress. You may have seen our initial report already (circulated via the Interest Hubs), but if not, you can read it on our website.
Another topic discussed at our last Interest Hubs meeting was how to help our u3a keep pace with new members (121 this year!) so everyone always has a welcome and an activity.

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New Handbell Ringing Group?
Looking for a new hobby?  Do you want something that challenges you physically and mentally while still being fun?  Why not start a new Handbell Ringing Group? We already have the Handbells.
Handbell ringing is an enjoyable team music activity that improves coordination, concentration, and memory.  Playing a variety of tunes as part of a group is very sociable, and you make music quickly, whether you are a complete novice or a fluent music reader. You don't need to be an experienced musician, though having a sense of rhythm and timing helps.
If you are interested, please contact the Groups Support Team through the following link: Groups Coordinator

Have Your Say

‘Connect’ always welcomes news and feedback from Petersfield u3a members via the Editor of Connect

To keep the e-newsletter easy and enjoyable to read and the style consistent, we will likely edit the copy.

We will email the next issue of ‘Connect’ on Friday 6 November, with a copy deadline for all contributions on Monday, 2 November.