The monthly meeting on Wednesday 5 May provided an opportunity for group leaders to talk about new or changed groups being arranged for the autumn/winter session. Nine group leaders presented their chosen subjects, which included: chemistry and its effects on us and on the environment; Milton's Paradise Lost; a study of Pax Britannica and the influence of sea power; and "Sacred cows in sacred places" - a study of different religions and the way their adherents behave. Other groups will enable people to talk about loss and bereavement, learn the recorder or practise origami, try out their steps in ballroom dancing or undertake some local history research. John Hawkins has taken over the village visits, and will be focussing on villages along the banks of the five rivers.

Phil Babb is organising an architectural study day at Southampton University on Friday 22 October.

Outings currently being booked include one to Worcester on Thursday 8 July to visit the Royal Porcelain Works or the Cathedral. There are still a few seats left for the performance of La Traviata at the Mayflower on Tuesday 8 June.