Party time for Melton group to celebrate its 30th anniversary
Members of a Melton Mowbray group for people who have stepped away from the world of work have attended a party to celebrate the 30th anniversary of it being formed.
There were more than 120 in attendance at the event for the town’s u3a group, in which members socialise and learn and share skills in a wide range of disciplines.
Guests included Iain Cassidy, CEO of Third Age Trust, together with Mayor of Melton, Councillor Jim Adcock, and Lady Mayoress, Kate Adcock.
They spent time talking with members and learning more about the wide range of groups, activities and opportunities available through Melton Mowbray u3a.
The Mayor commented: “What impressed me the most was the number included in the celebrations and the amount of volunteers who helped from within u3a.”
The celebrations began with a traditional afternoon tea, followed by a programme of entertainment, including performances from ‘Mr Music Man’, Thomas Corden, accompanied by one of the group’s newest members, Russ Hamer. The afternoon concluded in lively style with a set from the u3’s own The Generation Gap.
The day was also an opportunity to recognise the people who have helped shape Melton Mowbray u3a over the years.
Current chairman, David Ramsden, warmly welcomed members and four past chairs - Winnifred Maine, Alan Barton, Graham Cherryman and Kathy Slack.
A special memory display also paid tribute to chairs from previous years who have made a significant contribution to the development of the organisation.
One member, Peter Maine, summed up the afternoon by saying: “The 30th anniversary of the beginning of our u3a will be long remembered by those lucky enough to be present.
"The committee members and many volunteer members must have worked so tirelessly to produce such a superb afternoon tea with an amazing celebration for all of us to enjoy.
"I am sure the happy faces and exuberant chatter was a worthwhile return for all your hard work over many months.”
The organisation continues to grow from strength to strength, with new members joining throughout the year and a steady stream of new interest groups being established to meet members’ interests and needs.
Members say Melton Mowbray u3a is a friendly, welcoming community where learning, friendship and enjoyment go hand in hand.
It is open to anyone who has stepped away from full or part-time work, or simply has more time to enjoy new experiences, it offers opportunities to discover new interests, develop existing skills and share knowledge with others.
The organisation is also building a reputation locally as one of the u3a’s most enterprising and forward-looking organisations, working alongside the wider Melton Mowbray community to make a positive contribution locally.
Feedback from members - both new and established - has been overwhelmingly positive.
One member described the difference u3a has made to their life, stating: “u3a was my lifeline.
"I didn’t want to become very lonely and isolated.
"It was down to me to put the work in and get out and meet people.
"u3a was one of the first organisations I joined and I have met some wonderful people whom I am starting to call friends.”