Norton Radstock u3a is up and running. In September, we had a stall at the Midsomer Norton Farmers’ Market where members were able to meet and potential members able to gain information about our activities.

All the committee were present with the photo showing Ethne Dando, Membership Secretary, Margaret Burdon, Speaker Secretary and our Chairman, Colin Tincknell. The u3a Crazy for Uke Group, and then the Guitar Group entertained the crowd.

Our Speaker Meetings commenced on 13th October when International TV Comedy and Scriptwriter, Brad Ashton, entertained our members. Using Zoom, Brad gave details of his experiences working with the likes of Tommy Cooper, Les Dawson, Bruce Forsyth, and Bob Monkhouse.

In November we had a fascinating account from Paul Barwick, who told us the story of WW2 spy Nancy Wake. She lived with the daily threat of death for many years working for MI6 in Europe.

We have a full programme of speakers for the next twelve months. Our Coffee Morning on the fourth Monday of the month has also enabled members to meet up for a chat once again.

The U3A National Body the Third Age Trust (TAT) is anxious to dispel the impression that we are simply an old person’s organisation.

Our membership is open to anyone who is not in full time employment and our current membership of 361 includes people from all walks of life. We remain a learning community but we “learn, laugh and live”. Our subject groups range from Art Appreciation, Painting, Psychology, Table Tennis, Digital Photography, Book Groups and even Wine Tasting.

Pre-Lockdown we had over forty subject groups and many are beginning to start up again, following clear Covid safety guidelines. No qualifications are expected or given. Members are encouraged to start up any subject group which they wish, and subject group membership can range from 6 – 40.

Anyone interested in joining the u3a can contact our Secretary, David Pearson (01761 232081 [email protected]) who can provide any further information and arrange for a “taster” at one of our meetings where we have a team of “Meeters and Greeters” whose job it is to make new and potential members feel welcome.

David Pearson