LEDBURY and District U3A members at the monthly meeting on October 19 were delighted to welcome Max Keen, a recently retired history teacher, who entertained and educated with his excellent illustrated talk about the English Civil War in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Max appeared in the costume of an average civil war soldier and he explained that the common soldiers from both sides dressed very similarly.

He also carried a large flag and brought along other various items of apparel such as a Roundhead helmet and armour.

The talk also included information about Ledbury's important role as a staging post for the Royalists. However, one of his oft repeated gripes was the lack of Heritage Blue Plaques at significant civil war sites in the region.

Max's talk was excellently illustrated with slides and his booming voice (obviously very beneficial in his previous teaching career) did not need a microphone - which was just as well as it would have been difficult to carry a mic with a flag over one shoulder and a sword in his other hand.

Ledbury and District U3A will, without doubt, be pleased to welcome Max back for more of his fantastic history talks in the future.

The AGM took place on November 16 and after all business was concluded and the existing Committee were re-elected, plus one new member; members indulged in tea and plates of home-made cake whilst struggling with an enjoyable quiz on musicals, compiled and conducted by Wendy Hill.

If you are interested in joining in and taking part in any of over 40 groups, or just want to know more, please ring the membership secretary on 01531 633637 or go ledburyu3a.org.uk