Autumn Social Programme 2026
Events & Speaker Synopses .
Tues 29th Sept: Espionage – Peter Holmes
An entertaining discussion on the History, development and misconceptions surrounding the ‘Spying Game’, with British Intelligence Agencies explained, some Historic Espionage Cases and their modern equivalents, Double Agents, Spying Methods and the modern day threat.
Tues 13th Oct: Serendipity – Alan Hunton
‘A phenomenon which describes a beneficial outcome achieved purely by chance’. In this talk Alan will look at several scientific discoveries throughout history that were made by mistake and how the unintended consequences brought significant advantages to society.
Tues 27th Oct: How to Investigate a Murder – Vanessa Smith
Vanessa worked in vice, robbery and drugs squads before becoming the first female West Yorkshire Police murder squad detective, rising through the ranks to become a Det. Superintendent. In this fascinating talk which presents a fictional crime to the audience, Vanessa provides an inside look at how an investigation develops when the clock is ticking.
Tues 10th Nov: Oprah Winfrey Touched My Elbow – Graham Keal
As a showbiz journalist, Graham spent his career interviewing celebrities for national and regional newspapers as well as TV magazines. Some encounters have been funny, a few have been fraught, and many have been fascinating. So, which famous faces will we get to hear about today?
Tues 24th Nov: The Magic of the Musicals – Marilyn Shalks
Marilyn will share her passion for musical theatre with us as she brings a selection of her favourite musicals to life with stories and music.
Tues 8th Dec: Xmas Afternoon Tea with Festive Tunes from Faded Cells
The 4-piece Ukulele band, Faded Cells, are returning to entertain us with a selection of festive tunes.
Doors will open at 1.00 for 1.30pm start.The cost of admission is £6 afternoon tea with sandwiches, quiche, sausage rolls, cakes and mince pies all served to the tables from 2pm, with tea & coffee available.The Bar will be open for the purchase of drinks from 1.00 to 2.30pm.
Please book tickets, available from Chair@u3aleeds.com or pay by cash at a prior Tuesday meeting.
All meetings are at the Moor Allerton Sports & Social Centre
Page updated 23 September 2026