PETERSFIELD U3A welcomed potential new members at a showcase open day in St Peters Church.
Opened by Petersfield Mayor, Petersfield town councillor James Deane, the event was aimed at raising awareness of U3A activities.
Philip Jones is taking over as chairman from Esther Jones, no relation they point out, at a time when membership is soaring.
Philip said: “We now have 600 members, but always happily welcome more.”
Petersfield U3A is one of 1,000 branches across the country, and provides opportunities for retired and semi-retired people with common interests to get together.
In Petersfield, there are book circles, arts and heritage sections, bridge, chess, scrabble, mah jong and crossword groups, cycling for fun outings, French, Italian and Spanish conversation and learning classes – among many other subjects enjoyed by members.
Outgoing chairman Esther said: “it’s like a big family, and we welcome new members in, as well as learning and developing skills, U3A is a great place to make new friends, and very importantly, enjoy ourselves and have fun.”
Founded in Toulouse in France, the University of the Third Age (U3A), was so called because it provided those who had finished raising families and working the opportunity to resume learning.
Many of the groups meet in people houses, so are small, giving everyone the opportunity to get to know who they sitting next to, or across from.
Popular talks are normally held at Petersfield Community Centre to accommodate a bigger audience.
For more details email [email protected], or visit the Petersfield U3A website www.petersfieldu3a.org.uk