U3A Regional Event - April 18th 2011
Woodhorn was buzzing recently as dozens of eager, enthusiastic individuals arrived to learn about the museum and archives. But this wasn’t a normal education visit as the “students” were all members of U3A (University of the Third Age) in the region.Arranged by the Ashington branch of the organisation, this event was one of a number of region-wide activities that take place on a regular basis. Ninety members from 17 different groups attended from as far afield as Richmond in North Yorkshire up to Alnwick in Northumberland.
A great day was had by all according to organisers, and from the smiling faces as they left, there was little doubt of that.
During their day long get-together, they found themselves discovering the Dark Side of Woodhorn with guided tours around buildings not normally accessible to the general visitor and tales of disasters and incidents. There was a full tour of the museum including sight of the Pitmen Paintings and, if they wished, a ride on the train through the Queen Elizabeth Park. Local historian Barry Mead also entertained the U3A members with his own special talk on mining memories.Members of staff from the Northumberland Archives at Woodhorn delighted the audience as they explained about one of their current projects, Working Lives which is exploring papers relating to industrial, commercial and rural history of Northumberland. Members were fascinated to hear of special finds including letters with presidential signatures.
Nearby Newbiggin by the Sea wasn’t forgotten about during the day either, with a presentation on the village and its fishing heritage by Karen Stuart.
“The event was months in the planning,” said Ashington U3A Chairman June Padley, “but we were very happy with the results.”
“It is great to be able to use our facilities here at Woodhorn to both entertain and educate, and we like nothing better than to share our heritage and knowledge with others,” said Woodhorn Director Keith Merrin. “We hope to see at least some of the U3A members back again enjoying our special events and exhibitions. Perhaps with their families next time.”
Anyone wanting to find out more about the U3A movement can do so at
www.u3a.org.uk