THIS summer the Ellesmere Port and District U3A will celebrate its second birthday.
The group, which stands for the University of the Third Age, already has nearly 170 members since it began in July 2011 to provide educational, creative and leisure opportunities for retired or semi-retired people or those no longer in full-time employment.
Members meet at 2pm on the first Thursday of every month at The Groves Sports Club on Whitby Road at 2pm for the opportunity to meet friends and enjoy an entertaining afternoon which includes guest speakers on various subjects, as well as plays, pantomimes and parties.
Local interest groups make visits to meetings, speaking about subjects ranging from local history, and activities such as music-making, table tennis and walking to indoor bowls, and there is also a regular lunch and dining group which samples the delights of local restaurants.
In addition, the group has a social committee which organises monthly outings to various theatres, museums, pubs, stately homes, zoos and heritage tours.
Member Celia Webber said: “U3As are charities in their own right and are run entirely by volunteers.
“The Ellesmere Port and District U3A is serving a vital role in the community.
“We get together to provide education and companionship for a substantial number of potentially isolated people.
“When you are no longer part of the work force, retirement takes a bit of getting used to but with the U3A, I’ve found it’s been fantastic to meet like-minded people and share interests, friendship and hobbies and, even at our great age, improve our minds.
“We’re learning co-operatives who draw upon the knowledge, experience and skills of our own members.”
There are currently more than 760 U3As in the UK, with a membership of about 250,000.
For more information, visit the website by searching for Ellesmere Port U3A. The site contains an application form you can complete if you are interested in joining, or call 0151 345 1141 for more details.
