Around 20 members of the Ellesmere Port and District U3A group attended the Whitby Hydrogen Village Hydrogen Experience Centre.

University of the Third Age, began in July 2011 to provide educational, creative and leisure opportunities for retired or semi-retired people or those no longer in full-time employment. Members meet at 2pm on the first Thursday of every month at The Groves Sports Club on Whitby Road for the opportunity to meet friends and enjoy an entertaining afternoon which includes guest speakers on various subjects, as well as plays, pantomimes and parties.

Local interest groups make visits to meetings, speaking about subjects ranging from local history, and activities such as music-making, table tennis and walking to indoor bowls, and there is also a regular lunch and dining group which samples the delights of local restaurants.

The visit included:

• A tour of the Hydrogen Experience Centre.
• A live demonstration of the hydrogen appliances.
• An introduction to the Hydrogen Village project, with a Q & A opportunity.

Lorna Millington, Future Networks Engineer – Cadent, provided a detailed overview, including the rationale for the change from natural gas to hydrogen. Lorna was on hand to answer any questions from the group members.

David Shimmin Secretary, Ellesmere Port and District u3a said: “Thanks to all the team at the Hydrogen Experience Centre for your hospitality and a very interesting afternoon for the u3a Science Group. Well done for engaging with all the varied questions.”