Chance to further your knowledge

The chance to expand knowledge and meet others is being offered by the town's branch of the WEA.

The Workers' Education Association has arranged four courses about a range of subjects.

They vary from Russian novelists to the history of film.

Student Jackie Hilary said: 'I always enjoyed looking at art and going to galleries.

'I then started to go to an art history class about three years ago.

'My pleasure in art has been truly enhanced by knowing more about the artists '“ how they learn their craft, how they are influenced by old masters and their work reflects political, religious and social backgrounds.'

She added that the courses offered the chance to learn in the company of others rather than testing brain power in solitary pursuits such as computer games or sudoku.

The WEA is part-funded by the Learning and Skills Council.

The amount received depends on class numbers. So, the poorer the response, the less likely the WEA can continue to offer courses in the area.

The WEA's courses from January are:

Talking Pictures: an introduction to cinema '“ Mosse Hall, behind St Richard's Church, Gossamer Lane, Aldwick. Mondays 10.30am-12.30pm; ten meetings from January 7.

Local History: The Past Becomes the Present 1603-1900 '“ Pagham Village Hall, Pagham Road, Pagham. Wednesdays 10am-noon; 10 meetings from January 9.

Russian Literature: Dostoevsky and the Crisis of Belief '“ Regis School of Music, 46 Sudley Road, Bognor Regis; five meetings from January 17. Bookings should be made in advance.

Lock Gates and Iron Rails about canals and railways in the 19th century; Pagham Village Hall. Tuesdays 10am-noon; five meetings from February 5.

The first class on any of the courses can be enjoyed as a taster session. Reservations for any of the classes should be made to Jackie Hilary on 01243 266929.