REPORT on the meeting on Wednesday, January 21 at St Peter’s Baptist Church, Worcester.

DeAnna Cardoza, a Volunteer Site Guide from the National Trust property Chedworth Roman Villa, gave Worcester U3A members an insight into the history and buildings at Chedworth.

Chedworth is one of 22 villas built by the Romans within a small area near the major town of Cirencester. The first buildings at Chedworth date from 175 ad but after the Romans left at the beginning of the 5th century the villa fell into disuse. It was not until 1865 that remains were found by chance by James Farrer and Lord Eldon put up a small building as a museum to house the finds. Since 1924 it has been in the care of the National Trust and further excavations have taken place and buildings erected to conserve the remains. Visitors can now see mosaics, and bath houses, latrines and sections of hypocausts and discover something of Roman life.

In August 2014 test excavations led to the discovery of a new wall and new large mosaic which included new patterns not found in any of the other mosaics on the site

Worcester U3A members were reminded to sign up for the many trips being organised by the travel group throughout the year for the 30th Anniversary of Worcester U3A Event in April.

MARGARET SWEET