Groups are the focal points of our U3A. Contact is made through a Group Leader and meetings are usually held in member’s homes which can limit the size of the group. Times, dates, venues and meeting times are arranged to suit group members and can be weekly, fortnightly or monthly, nearly always during the day, either mornings or afternoons. Some groups may have a waiting list.

There are no charges for membership of these Groups, except for a nominal ‘hospitality’ contribution of 36p for the tea/coffee if provided.

It is agreed that if we share cars for any group outings, the scale charge is 24p divided by the number of people in the car including the driver. E.g. two in the car, 18p per mile, three in the car, 12p per mile, four in the car, 9p per mile.

A brief description of the Groups and an overall schedule of their meetings can be found on other pages.

The Committee always welcomes ideas for new groups, for which help and support is readily available.

Monthly

We have a meeting for all members to which guest speakers are invited to talk on a variety of subjects. Tea, and time for a chat, follow the meeting.

There are organised walks, both long and short, followed by an optional pub lunch.

Sunday lunches in different venues are arranged. Most months there is a visit to a London or regional theatre, and the Gardens Group arrange an outside visit.

In addition

There are regular Coffee Mornings, visits to places of interest, and other events such as a Treasure Hunt, Quiz, Barn Dance or Wine Tasting. At least three times a year a lunch is arranged at different restaurants for around 30 - 40 members, and we celebrate Christmas with special events. Suggestions from members for other activities are always welcome.

The cost of all activities beyond the Groups is kept to a minimum, and car-sharing can be arranged for those who request it on a shared-cost basis. These additional activities are publicised in our Newsletter, at our monthly Speaker meetings and on this website.

Newsletter

A local newsletter, edited and published by committee members, giving full details of all events is sent to all members every two months. Members also receive a quarterly U3A News from the Third Age Trust, our national organisation.