Because there were a large number of members who weren’t able to join Reading Group 1, a second group was started in 2005. There are now four reading groups and we feel we are doing our bit in keeping the local libraries operating. As we are now able to order books which have just been published, this has added to our enjoyment.

We read a diverse range, both fact and fiction and still debate what makes a ‘classic’ – are there any modern day classics? Our group gives everyone time to voice their opinion of the book we have just finished reading and marks are given out of 10. The most we have given a book is 8.75 (To Kill a Mocking Bird) and the least was 1.5.(I have deliberately not given the title in order not to offend the author!)

Sometimes we arrange an outing or visit a film following the book’s theme. At the start of this year over tea or coffee, we extended our discussion range to include topics of interest such as visits to exhibitions, theatre, cinema and television which has proved enjoyable as well as stimulating.