Daventry education group marks its first year

On Thursday last week the Daventry and District U3A celebrated its first year of existence.

The branch is part of the national U3A organisation, which aims to provide opportunities for ‘Third Agers’ no longer in full time employment to develop their interests and hobbies or even learn new ones with people of similar outlooks.

No qualifications are needed to join and there are no examinations. The idea is to have fun while learning.

A spokesman for the group said: “Despite a number of people expressing the view that ‘a U3A will never work in Daventry’ a small group called a launch meeting in April 2015.

“The result wildly exceeded expectations with the original meeting hall filled to overflowing.

“Since then the U3A has grown with over 230 members and holds monthly general meetings alongside more than 20 interest groups, all of which meet during the day time.

“At Daventry there is already a wide variety of interest groups where members learn from each other – these groups include art and craft, languages, sport and exercise, discussions, indoor games and research.

“Interest groups often meet in members’ houses or in small halls so it is an opportunity to participate in a relaxed and enjoyable way.

“Looking to the future the U3A aims to extend the range of speakers and events at its monthly meetings, to increase the number of interest groups as membership grows and to organise a programme of visits.

“Above all though the U3A, through its monthly meetings and Group activities, provides friendship and companionship in a pleasant environment.”

For more details go to the group’s website.