About two and a half years ago, after the retirement of Mrs Christel Parker from many years of German Language tutorship at local evening classes which benefitted pupils from as many as 10 miles away, it was decreed that most adult evening education would have to sink beneath the waves of economic cutback.
In consequence, residents will recall the “blank year”. Out of the poor situation came plenty, for many former pupils supported Christel to establish the German Circle to promote further knowledge, in the absence of formal classes, of her homeland, its customs and culture.
There have been talks about German history, music, food, wine and tourism with the current venture of a coach visit for 28 members to the Mosel Valley where one of the members was brought up in the little town of Alf beside the vine clad riverside slopes. She is far from alone in the number of German-born members of the circle. The monthly meetings cannot always have a German theme, but other events also attract a keen following – beer and skittles competition and coach excursions for example.The forthcoming programme includes a typical German autumnal party in October and the Christmas meal and dance with live music at the Admiral Rodney Hotel.
Tony Williams