If you’re busy working, raising a family or doing all the other things that make today’s life pretty hectic, you might not have heard of us. But if you’ve recently retired (or part retired) and maybe looking for something to fill the space, the u3a could be just the thing.
Each local u3a is part of a national charity movement founded forty years ago. There are now over a thousand u3as around the country providing relaxed learning and leisure activities, with plenty of opportunities to make new friends.
Keeping active – physically, mentally, and in friendly company – we know is good for our wellbeing. And especially so for older people, some of whom can find themselves lonely.
Coffee cup and cake on wooden table in coffee shop.
East Leake is served by Soar Valley u3a and, like all local u3as, we’re run entirely by volunteer members. We draw on their knowledge, skills and experiences to organise various interest groups and social events. Currently we have around 35 such groups: science, singing, birdwatching, dancing, history, walking, crafts, photography.. and many more. Plus, we hold guest speaker meetings, we arrange day trips to interesting places, and we organise social activities such as Christmas parties, BBQs, and coffee mornings.
Some of the highlights of the past year include: coach trips to the Malvern Spring Festival, Little Morton Hall and York, and guest speakers talking about history, TV acting and a fascinating magician. And we celebrated in style for Christmas with a dinner, dancing and musical entertainment. Just a few of the many activities enjoyed by our members. In fact, we like to think that there’s something of interest for everybody no longer working fulltime. All for a subscription of just £12 a year!
Find out how you can enjoy retirement so much more. Join us for Free Coffee and Cake, 11.30am to 1pm on Friday 17 January at East Leake Village Hall.
Many of our groups will be on display and we’ll be happy to talk with you or if you can’t make it, why not take a look at our website – https://soarvalley.u3asite.uk
Written by Brian Hinners