Founded in 1982, u3a is a UK-wide movement of locally run groups that provide a wide range of opportunities for adults who are no longer in work or raising a family, to meet and learn for fun, that is, those who might be called in their third age. There are now more than 1,000 groups with 430,000 members meeting to explore new ideas, skills and activities.
Throughout 2022, u3a in the UK will be celebrating its 40th birthday with a special programme of events, while Dukeries u3a will be celebrating its own 30th birthday.
October’s speaker will be David Sweeney on ‘Every Body Tells a Story’. David will share stories of his police career as a Forensic Detective using forensic science in crime detection. This is not an illustrated talk, be assured it will not be gory! In November, members will learn more from Katherine Wright about their nominated charity, the Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance.
The Dukeries u3a Ramblers recently completed an eight-mile walk along the Cromford Canal in Derbyshire and a 6.5-mile round trip around Orston in Nottinghamshire. Meanwhile, the Whatsapp Walkers enjoyed shorter circular walks around Farnsfield and Blidworth Woods. The Sunday and Tuesday lunch clubs appreciated lovely meals at Bella Vita in Ollerton and Rufford Golf Club. Owing to popular demand, from October there will be a second session of Scrabble at Ambleside Centre, New Ollerton.
Dukeries u3a is one of the smaller u3a groups in Nottinghamshire and prides itself on its warm welcome to new and existing members. The group boasts over 140 members drawn from Ollerton, Edwinstowe and the surrounding villages. During the month there is a varied calendar of 17 activity and interest groups ranging from Scrabble to soft tennis. Members also meet every month to hear a guest speaker on a matter of interest and to socialise.
In addition, a special event and travel calendar is being planned for the coming months. The next trip will be to the National Holocaust Museum, Laxton, which has been arranged by the new History group. For more details of events, visit www.u3asites.org.uk/dukeries. Alternatively, contact chairperson Leslye for more information on 07756 436177 or du3achair2020@gmail.com.
If you have an interest you would like to learn more about, or share with others, while making new friends and socialising safely, Dukeries u3a may be for you. Annual membership subscriptions up to 31st March 2023 are now available for £19.00. Members of other local u3as are welcome to join as associates for £10.00. You can join online via the website or in person at a monthly members’ meeting, which takes place at the Jubilee Hall, Wellow Road, Ollerton on the third Monday starting at 12.30pm. Members have access to all activity / interest groups and social activities. They also receive a monthly newsletter and can apply to join an activity group run by other local u3as in the North Notts Network Group.