U3A

THE traditional format of U3A’s Christmas meeting differed slightly this year, as members were reminded at the beginning by Mary Burdett Jones of the arrival in Aberystwyth of some Syrian refugees. Having been reminded of various ways in which this organisation could contribute to helping them feel at home, they passed to their familiar pattern of carols, presentations by some of the subject groups of examples of their activities during the year, more carols, and then of course, tea and mince pies. They heard from members of the Poetry Group some readings of favourite poems, largely about children; from the German Group an hilarious depiction of the problems likely to be encountered by any student of a foreign language; the Recorder Group gave us an impressive example of their progress in learning to play this deceptively simple instrument; and finally the Literature Group surprised with enactments of dramatic extracts, largely Shakespearean, all introduced by classic recordings of well known actors, impressively played on a pre-electric gramophone. They finished with more carols, and refreshments. The next meeting will be at the Morlan at 2.30pm on Thursday, 21 January, when all are welcome to hear Dr Susan Davies talk on ‘Reading yesterday’s handwriting: a new skill for tomorrow?’ Cambrian Floral Society ON Wednesday, 2 December, the society’s Christmas demonstration was held at the Penweddig School Hall. John James, chairman, welcomed and introduced the demonstrator for the evening, Kevin Davies of Cardiff and Aberystwyth. His Christmas theme was unusual in that he introduced socks into every arrangement. The tradition of hanging socks by the fireplace on Christmas Eve originated in the 17th century. However, the whole evening was a floral interpretation of the Christmas story starting with the Old Testament prophecy of the coming of Christ some 600 years before it happened. Kevin then moved on to designs depicting the angels, shepherds and finally to the star which the three wise men followed to the stable at Bethlehem. Everyone agreed that this demonstration was instrumental in bringing the true meaning of Christmas to us through flowers. In his vote of thanks the chairman also praised the members for setting up the various stalls in the hall. The next event will be a demonstration by some of the members. This will take place at Bethel Chapel Vestry, Baker Street, on Wednesday, 6 January at 7pm. All welcome.