THE speaker at the first general meeting of the Bromsgrove U3A held in February was Barbara Royle aided by her husband, Keith, of the independent bird register based in the Manchester area.

Their talk featured an introduction to the various birds of prey that are seen in the skies of the UK, then an introduction to the sport and art of falconry and ending with an explanation about the independent bird register, which they operate to monitor all the birds of prey in the UK.

They act as a contact for all matters concerning such birds, especially assisting in the return of birds that have been lost. There was an added bonus as Barbara and Keith brought with them a couple of their live birds to demonstrate how they look in the flesh – there was a falcon and an American origin hawk. A most different talk which the members greatly enjoyed.

We are continuing our series to introduce the various specialist groups that cater for the members’ interests – this time it is one of the music groups – they gather at a member’s house in order to enjoy a wide range of music that is suitable for the members to listen to and to be able to comment after the event, having heard the reasons for the choice from the individual who had compiled the collection of music.

A way to appreciate music in the company of fellow members who have an interest in such compilations.

For more details about anything to do with the Bromsgrove U3A, please call the membership secretary on 01527 870449 or visit bromsgroveu3a.

org.uk.