Computer Group : by Dennis Appleton

. The Computer group started in September, 1997, with myself, as convenor, and ten members. Their ages ranged from mid-50's to one gentleman of 87! and their experience of computing was as varied as their ages. Some were complete novices whilst others had acquired some level of expertise from their use of computers at their place of work.

When we started, we did not have any computer equipment and had to borrow a machine from the local Leisure Centre, where we held our weekly meetings. Although attendance has fluctuated, our numbers fell as low as 3 for some meetings, new members have joined, and we now have a very lively group of around 15 enthusiasts. Our venue has also changed, we now meet at the home of one of our members.

We currently have the use of 2 computers with a printer and a scanner. In addition to weekly discussions of computing problems encountered by group members, our activities include involvement in the production of the branch monthly newsletter and the maintenance of our branch web page on the Internet. Some initial work on the production of this book served as an exercise in desk top publishing.

Like all the other U3A activity groups, we are a very sociable crowd and new members, whatever their level of interest or expertise, are made very welcome.