IF the cold weather is getting you down, don’t fret. Keep motivated this week with Emily Ray’s five suggested events in the Hillingdon area for under £5.

Monday, February 24

Hillingdon Table Tennis Club (httc.co.uk) is on the lookout for extra players. Sessions take place on Mondays, 7-9pm, and cost £3 for members and £4 for non-members. Alternatively, bring along a friend and they’ll just pay £1. Bargain.

Wednesday, Feb 26

London’s Young Poet Laureate, Warsan Shire, will be reading from her new work at Brunel University from 6pm. The Kenyan-born Somali poet, who began writing to connect with her heritage, will also talk to novelist Bernardine Evaristo, who is Reader in Creative Writing at the university. Entry is free, but booking is essential; email library.events@brunel.ac.uk

Thursday, Feb 27

Also taking place at Brunel is a lecture by Clare Williams, Professor of Medical Sociology. Titled Born This Way? Selective reproduction and new medical technologies, the lecture seeks to explore the impact of increasing reproductive technologies. There will also be light refreshments afterwards. Booking is free, but go online at brunel.ac.uk/news-and-events/inaugural-lectures/ne_348271

Saturday, March 1

Spring into March with a one-hour Zumba workout led by Meg. Taking place every Saturday morning, the class looks to get pulses racing to the sounds of energetic music. It’s also a great opportunity to meet new friends and gain some fitness motivation. Classes take place at The Barn Activity Venue every Saturday from 9.15am and cost £5.

Sunday, March 2

A 3.5-hour cycle ride takes participants through three of the four golf courses in the borough. It’s free to tag along – just turn up at the entrance to Hillingdon Leisure Centre at 9:45am to register.