Roger Prescott, a Leicestershire member of the U3A network, worked tirelessly through the pandemic keeping in touch via Zoom programmes while live meetings were impossible. He also worked on devising a new activity for the time when we could meet again and thus we in Enderby were treated to a joyous afternoon of “Juke Box Jury”. This popular television programme from the 1960s was first seen in the USA in 1948 but was not seen in the black and white television era of the UK until 1959. It first aired on Monday June 1st with compere David Jacobs and a panel comprising Alma Cogan, Pete Murray, Gary Miller and a ‘random teenager’, and proved so popular that it was soon transferred the more popular Saturday tea time !

Roger’s mobile version is as close to the original version as he could devise. He became the compere, four intrepid ‘volunteers’ from our U3A were press-ganged into service but soon got into character, especially our recycled teenager! There was a light up sign advising the studio audience when to applaud , boo, or cheer and in case of a split decision by the jury we were all supplied with HIT or MISS signs to wave when needed. To be a hit each song had to have been voted into the top ten of the hit parade as revealed on the weekly charts.

First up for selection was “Why” sung by Anthony Newly. That was voted a resounding hit, having enjoyed 4 weeks at number one when released in February 1960. Space does not allow for details of the ten songs we heard, suffice to say that a noisy, happy afternoon was enjoyed by all. We are deeply indebted to Roger Prescott for his devotion to the U3A movement, helping to keep it alive and vibrant.

We meet at Enderby Civic Centre at 1.45 on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. If you would like to know more about us you can contact Anne, our membership secretary on 07933 165200.