Have a day out in Haddenham, Bucks on Saturday
18th June and join us for a Treasure Hunt.
Regional News
Life is beginning to feel very much like normality again. Do you think so? I'm delighted that the East Midlands region has by far the largest number of social events on offer so do join in if you can as they are a great way to make new friends and have some fun now we're allowed to do that again. This month you have options of pub socials, meals in the afternoon and evening, book club, discussions, treasure trails, Viking festival, private tour at the British Horological Institute and much more. Please remember that all these events are hosted by volunteers and any member is welcome to host an event.
Just get in touch with me if you have any suggestions for future activities. Everything and anything considered!
Enjoy the Queen's jubilee and if you're not a royalist then just enjoy any time off work! Do send photos of your celebrations to Empress as we'd love to see them. Are you having a street party or any special events in your home town?
I'm on [Phone Number] or [Email]
Maxine Bates
Regional Officer
Editorial
After a long break I am back on track. It was two years ago when Covid hit hard and most of all were staying at home. As a teacher, I actually enjoyed my online lessons, although logistically challenging. I didn't need to deal with students talking too much but the opposite, students looking at the screen expecting someone else to answer the question. Some were wearing their uniform, some still in their pyjamas. If you are a parent I hope you prayed for your children's teachers everyday. We can deal with 30 students per hour, for five hours a day for five days a week. I wondering how many of you struggled with just one or two... Two years on and school is back to normal, exams are on track and life goes on. New challenges appear every day. Some distant, some closer to home but you know what they say, "what doesn't kill you make you stronger ". So, now that summer is coming let's hope that everything gets sorted out, more or less, just in time. As Terry Pratchett would have said "Interesting Times" ahead.
Maria Falces
Member Profile
Events and Meetings
Derby Diary
On Wed 8th Jun at 1:30pm - Lunch
Join us at Beaurepaire Patisserie, 52 King Street, Belper, DE56 1PL. Free parking nearby. Panini, salads, jacket potatoes, daily specials, homemade cakes, hot/soft drinks and more. We usually have the parlour on the top floor to ourselves. An idea of numbers needed so tables can be reserved. Please contact Helen on [Phone Number] or [Email] by the weekend before the meeting if you are thinking of coming.
On Wed 15th Jun at 7:30pm - 3WOTM
This month we will be at Mr Grundy's, Ashbourne Road, Derby, DE22 3AD (part of the Georgian House Hotel, entrance round the back). We'll be in our separate room (if the weather is good enough we might move outside) - ask for "Susan's Group". Come along to eat or just for a drink. Separate Pizza menu available as well as pub food. Contact Susan on [Email] or [Phone Number].
On Sun 19th Jun at 2:00pm - Treasure Trail
A free themed treasure trail around the village and canals of Shardlow, once an inland port. Meet in free car park on Wilne Lane (DE72 2HA) to set off between 2-2.30pm. Approx. 3.5 miles and 2 hours. Suitable for children and dogs. Discover historic facts whilst solving clues to find out whodunnit. Optional dinner at the New Inn afterwards. Contact Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] to take part.
On Sat 25th Jun at 12:30pm - Viking Festival
Interactive festival including a fishing village, complete with ships and craftworkers, Jarl's court, display of Viking horsemanship and archery. Watch warriors in action and even meet them. It's at Locko Park near Spondon. DE21 7BW. Tickets cost £10 (Concessions £7.50, children aged 6-17 £5, Family ticket £25). Contact Susan on [Email] or [Phone Number] for meeting arrangements and (by Wed 22nd) to see if we've numbers for a group discount.
Susan Graves
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] / [Mobile Number] for details
Hertfordshire Happenings
On Thu 2nd Jun at 8:00pm - FThOTM
This is our monthly meeting at the Three Magnets, in Leys Avenue. This is one of the main shopping streets of Letchworth, and is a short walk from the railway station, which is served by frequent trains between London and Cambridge. Please call or text Steve on [Phone Number], or email [Email] for further information and encouragement.
On Fri 24th Jun at 8:00pm - LFOTM
As ever, we are at the Cowper Arms, Digswell (next to Welwyn North station) from 8 pm. Richard will be away, so Steve is hosting this one. The restriction on numbers has been relaxed, but if you want to come, please can you call or SMS me on [Phone Number] by Friday 17th June to give me an indication of who is coming.
Steve Thomas
Contact [Email] or [Mobile Number] for details
In Leicestershire
On Mon 20th Jun at 8:00pm - Pub Social
Join me for our usual convivial third Monday of the month gathering at the welcoming Cradock Arms, 201 Knighton Road, Leicester, LE2 3TT. The pub serves cask and guest ales and food if you want it. You are welcome to bring a friend or partner. Look out for the Mblem or Magazine. If you need any directions or encouragement, please contact me on [Phone Number] or at [Email].
On Sat 25th Jun at 7:00pm - Pub meal
Come and dine with us at The Sugar Loaf, 2 Nottingham Road (A606), Ab Kettleby LE14 3JB. Check out the pub at https://www.the-sugar-loaf.co.uk/ You are welcome to bring one friend along. Booking is essential so please let me know by Saturday 18th June if you would like to come along. Contact me on [Phone Number] or e-mail [Email]
Haydn Starkie
Contact [Email] or [Mobile Number] for details
Lively Lincs
On Sat 4th Jun at 10:30am - Zoom coffee morning
A virtual meet-up for those who do, or don't, come to our meetings in person. Old and new friends very welcome, regardless of where you live. Bring your own coffee! Please email me in advance on [Email] and I will send the Zoom link.
On Sat 11st Jun at 12:00pm - 2SOTM pub discussion
Our regular meeting at the Adam & Eve Tavern, Lindum Hill. This month we are asking ourselves: 'If we are in a safe place, do we have an obligation to open the door when someone in danger knocks?' All very welcome. Car park, food, decent ales, tea/coffee. Please contact me by Friday 10th if you hope to come, as we have to book the alcove. Email [Email] or telephone [Phone Number].
On Thu 30th Jun at 6:30pm - Pub meal
Dinner at the charming riverside Pyewipe Inn. Walkable from central Lincoln. By car, access is down a single-track lane off A57 just west of A46 bypass roundabout - clearly signposted to the inn. All welcome! We'll sit outside if the weather is fine, but I'll book a table inside just in case, so please contact me by Saturday, 25th June: [Email] or [Phone Number].
Jacquie Harrison
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] / [Mobile Number] for details
Mid Bucks
On Sat 4th Jun at 2:30pm - Theatre
Join me at the Wycombe Swan theatre to see this adaptation of Michael Morpurgo's "Private Peaceful" for the stage. We join 18-year-old Private Tommo Peaceful in the trenches as he tells us his story. Buy your own tickets from https://wycombeswan.co.uk/Online/tickets-private-peaceful-wycombe-2022 Please contact me on [Phone Number] or e-mail me at [Email] to let me know you are coming.
On Sun 5th Jun at 2:00pm - Games Afternoon
Please join Dave and Alison online for a relaxed and informal Sunday afternoon of board games and chat. All members and friends are welcome. We play most Sundays using www.boardgamearena.com and Jitsi for chat. Further details are on the main Mensa web site. For more information please contact Dave a few days beforehand. Either telephone him on [Phone Number] or e-mail to [Email]
On Fri 10th Jun at 10:30am - Coffee & Chat
Join me for coffee and chat at the Air Adventures Café on Booker Airfield, near High Wycombe. Free parking available. No need to book, but if you want me to look out for you, let me know you are coming on [Phone Number] or e-mail me at [Email]
On Sat 18th Jun at 10:00am - Haddenham Day
Haddenham is an interesting village near Thame with a local museum and Tiggywinkle's Wildlife Hospital. It is the location for June's Treasure Hunt. If you would like to join us for all or part of the day, please let me know on [Phone Number] or e-mail me at [Email] by Monday 13th June. I will then forward you the detailed arrangements for the day.
For further details or encouragement contact me on [Phone Number] or e-mail me at [Email]
Val Hinkins
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] for details
Mensans in MK & Bedford
On Mon 20th June at 7:00pm - Book Group
Book Group will be at 7pm on Monday 20th in the foyer of Jury's Inn Hotel in MK city centre. Please contact me for details of this month's book.
On Wed 22nd June at 10:00am - River Boat
On Wednesday 22nd we will be doing a 3½ hour picturesque cruise on the John Bunyan river boat from Bedford to the Anchor at Great Barford. The cost is £39pp which includes a buffet lunch at The Anchor. The cruise departs from Priory Marina at 10am, arriving at The Anchor at 1.30, with return by coach back to Priory Marina at 3pm. Book your own places at https://johnbunyanboat.tygit.com/shop/group-tickets/pk/0580619c17a1203390793914de7566b5 and let me know your booking details so I can arrange for us to sit together.
On Sun 26th June at 10:00am - Sunday Breakfast
Sunday breakfast will be from 10am on Sunday 26th at The Swan Revived Hotel in Newport Pagnell (though please do check social media or contact me nearer the time to confirm). It's always helpful (but not essential) if you can let me know if you plan to attend so I can reserve a large enough table.
Just a reminder about our M-MK & Bedford Facebook group - if you would like to join please search for the group and send me a request. I also keep an email distribution list for meeting reminders and any last-minute changes, so if you would like to be added to this please let me know.
We hope to see as many of you as possible at one or other of our events this month. Do remember that you're welcome to bring a guest with you, so if you've never been to a Mensa event and are a little nervous about coming along on your own, just bring a friend.
Jo Sidebottom
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] / [Mobile Number] for details
News from Northampton
On Sun 5th Jun at 10:30am - Breakfast Meeting
The Northampton monthly breakfast meeting at: Zapato Lounge, Welsh House, Market Square, NN1 2EB. Join us for a light snack of the full Lounge Breakfast! Look for the Mblem on one of the tables at the front of the café. Contact me on [Phone Number] or [Email]
On Sat 11st Jun at 10:30am - Pub Walk
Easy, compact walk. Barby Marina, Oxford Canal and Barby Wood. Meet at 'The Arnold Arms', Ware Road, Barby, Rugby. CV23 BUE (542 705) OS 222 7.75km (2 hrs 30 mins). Drink afterwards at 1:15pm. At 'The Green Man', Daventry Road, Dunchurch CV22 6NS. For help or encouragement [Phone Number][Email]
On Sat 11st Jun at 11:00am - Country Walk
A 3-4 mile stroll through the north Northants countryside. Meet in the car park at Twywell Hills & dales Nature Reserve, accessed from the A510 or Junction 11 of the A14, a few miles east of Kettering. A circular walk with a pub stop half-way for refreshments. Contact me on [Phone Number] or [Email]
Notts News
On Thu 9th Jun at 7:30pm - Natter & Nosh
Join us for a meal at The Cadland pub/restaurant on High Road in Chilwell. We have a large table reserved, usually to right of area as you enter from the car park. Menu at www.emberinns.co.uk. Or come later for just a drink. Further info from Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] or just turn up on the night. New members welcome.
On Wed 22nd Jun at 12:00pm - Lunch
We have tables reserved at The Clock House Cafe, Main Street, Upton, NG23 5TE, for a light lunch. Menu at https://clockhousecafeupton.weebly.com. Reserve your place with Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] by 15th latest. New faces welcome as are guests.
On Wed 22nd Jun at 2:00pm - Museum
A private tour of the Museum of Timekeeping at the British Horological Institute at Upton Hall (NG23 5TE) generally closed to the public. This listed building contains fascinating timepieces including Captain Scott's watch from the 1912 polar expedition, voice of the speaking clock and more. Visit approx. 2 hours with Q&A session at end. £10 per person. Pre-booking essential by 15th latest. Contact Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email]
On Tue 28th Jun at 7:30pm - Eating Meeting
An authentic taste of Turkish cuisine at Alaturka Meze Mangal restaurant in West Bridgford. Free parking right outside. See menu at www.alaturkamezemangal.co.uk and book your place with Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] by 24th.
Ciao for now!
Maxine Bates
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] for details
Maxine all dressed up for Eurovision... and England did well!!!
Milton Keynes area reading group
If you enjoy reading but have never belonged to a reading group, why not come along to Jury's Inn in Central Milton Keynes on the third Monday of every month?
Our reading group has been meeting since January of this year and so far we have enjoyed discussions on Small Things Like These by Clare Keegan, The Catcher in the Rye by J D Salinger, and The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri.
Our programme for the next few months is just as diverse: The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, A Tomb with a View by Peter Ross, and Bellman and Black by Diane Setterfield. We draw up the programme by pooling suggestions and then voting for the most popular choices.
Each month we read one book and then discuss our thoughts about it - what did we like (or not) about it, how did we feel about the characters, the style, the story, etc. It's interesting comparing notes with other readers, and helps us to appreciate aspects we might not have noticed individually. It's absolutely not necessary to be knowledgeable about literature, or to have highbrow tastes - all suggestions are considered, and all views are equally valid!
Although it's a Milton Keynes based group, you don't have to be in MK to join us. The group is quite small at present and would benefit from a wider range of inputs, so if you can get yourself to MK, we would be delighted to welcome you.
Jo Sidebottom
Haddenham Day Out & Treasure Hunt
Saturday 18th June 2022
Haddenham is a historic and interesting village which was shortlisted for Channel 4's 'Village of the Year' in 2018. With over 120 listed buildings, a celebrated wildlife hospital and a local museum to visit as well as a specially written Treasure Hunt there is plenty to see and do.
The village is well served by public transport links - there are frequent direct trains from London Marylebone, Birmingham, Oxford, Bicester and Banbury as well as a regular bus service on the route between Aylesbury, Thame and Oxford.
We have a base where a range of food and drink will be available to order (PAYG) all day. It also provides free parking, public facilities and an opportunity for some retail therapy if desired.
Haddenham Museum is housed in an old schoolroom in the centre of the village. It is run entirely by volunteers and will be opening especially for us in the afternoon from 2pm to 4pm.
Admission is free although donations would be welcome. Please visit!
The Treasure Hunt is all outside and should take just over 2 hours. There is no charge for the hunt and no prizes - this is just for fun. It will include some unpaved footpaths and cobbled surfaces. No hills. There are opportunities for refreshments along the route. You will need to collect the instructions from me at the base before you start.
You can follow the route on your own or invite your friends to do it with you.
Let me know if you are looking for people to enjoy it with and I will try to introduce you to others in the same position.
If you are under 18, please remember that you must have a responsible adult accompanying you.
We would also be very pleased to see any local members who just want to drop in for a meal or a drink. Contact me as below for further details. Booking is essential.
Please let me know if you are interested in coming by Monday 13th June so that I can prepare enough copies of the treasure hunt instructions and suggest staggered starting times if there is a lot of interest.
I will forward final details, parking and meeting arrangements to all those who have booked on Thursday or Friday of that week.
Val Hinkins
20 Questions (No. 248)
The answers to the April quiz were Bryce-Morgan, around Eve, Danny Boyle, Michael Kitchen, step-niece, Martin Clunes, Gwladys Probert in The Twilight Of The Gods, Pagan, Nathaniel Parker, 248 RPA, Richard Wilson, The Wench Is Dead, Promised Land, Chief Inspector Bottomley, St Christopher attached to handlebars, Ghost In The Machine, Avril, bird watching, belong to the same choir and five minutes in a lay-by. Just two entries this month so Pamela really tested you with her quiz! Congratulations to the winner Nigel Bryant of Bedford.
Thanks to Nigel for also compiling the quiz this month and as we're celebrating the jubilee the subject is kings and queens. For your chance to win a £10 One4All gift card, send your answers to arrive by 20th June by post to '20 Questions (No. 248)', [Address], or by email to [Email]. Any member from any region can enter but please remember to include your name and address so we can send the prize if you win.
1. Queen Elizabeth II is famous for her love of corgis. What was the name of her first pooch?
2. Prince Charles played which stringed instrument in the Trinity College Orchestra?
3. Who was the last English King to lead his army into battle?
4. Which English King had the longest reign?
5. How many monarchs are buried in St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle?
6. Sir Walter Scott was executed on the orders of which monarch?
7. Which one of Henry VIII's wives lived the longest?
8. When did Queen Victoria become Empress of India?
9. Who was the last English King to have a beard?
10. Which King made the largest Danegeld payment to make troublesome Viking raiders leave England?
11. Richard the Lionheart is famous for his time on the battlefield. But what weapon eventually killed him?
12. Which Queen's death did a doctor describe thus: 'Sleep was never more welcome to a weary traveller than death was to her.'?
13. Queen Victoria's love for Albert is well known, but how long did the pair's honeymoon last?
14. One notable job role in the Tudor court involved helping Henry VIII go to the toilet. What was this person's job title?
15. Which King arrived from Hanover, unable to speak English, to succeed his distant cousin Anne?
16. What was the name of the Queen's yacht which was de-commissioned in 1997?
17. Which Australian city was named after the queen consort to King William IV?
18. Who was murdered in 1327 at Berkeley Castle on the orders of his wife, Isabella?
19. What was 32 inches in 1512, 35 inches by the 1520s, and then 54 inches in 1545?
20. DNA tests confirmed that human remains found beneath Grey Friars car park in Leicester belong to which King?