Now in its ninth year, the Retford branch of the U3A has a membership of over 600 people. There are around 45 interest groups and new members often join the U3A specifically to join just one group; this is really encouraged, so if you have a friend who is thinking of joining or looking for something to do, maybe this is the organisation to join. Also, if you are now at a loose end and would like to meet some like minded people, have a look at the Retford U3A website, or pop along to their monthly meeting at the Well, and you will be made more than welcome. The full general U3A meeting is held once a month, at the Well Baptist Church, Retford, on the fourth Thursday of the month, starting around 1.15pm.
We are now into March, with spring just around the corner. The group’s Annual General Meeting is approaching fast and because of rotation, some of the committee are ineligible to stand next year, so volunteers or nominees are always welcome.
March is a time for dusting off those walking boots or trainers. In fact, the walking groups have been ‘at it’ all winter, but with spring about to break, it’s time to promote the three groups the U3A have.
Joan Winder looks after the ‘Strollers’ group. They walk around two miles at most, every third Tuesday, meeting at 10.30am. Dave Richardson looks after the ‘Moderates’ group. They meet on the first Monday of the month at 10.00am and usually walk about five miles. The third group, run by Tom Bell, are the ‘Striders’. This group meets every third Monday of the month, again at 10.00am, and usually walk up to about eight miles. You can see how the days are staggered, so if you are an enthusiast, you could join more than one group.
Roy and Kate have started to get some interest in re-launching the Family History Group, and will again be taking names of those who are interested at the next general meeting.
There are many other interest groups within Retford U3A, and If you have a computer, Google ‘Retford U3A’, and have a look at their ‘Interest Group’ page. If you do not have a computer, call the Membership Secretary and he will give you any information you need to become a member. The Membership Secretary’s phone number and email address are mentioned at the end of this piece.
The ethos of the U3A, which stands for The University of the Third Age is very simple. Members try to keep themselves active in body and mind, learning from each other, with shared knowledge and experiences. If you want to know more about the Retford U3A, have a look at their comprehensive website, or contact the Membership Secretary, Paul Bacon at membership@retford-u3a.org.uk. or by calling 01427 880502 for more details.