Which Worcester group offers the opportunity to play Pickleball or Short Mat Bowls on Monday, Tap or Line Dance on Tuesday, attend an interesting talk on anything from the Tudor diet to Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid on Wednesday, explore local or ancient history on Thursday and meet for coffee with new friends on Friday? Answer: Worcester u3a.

My focus for this year is older people in our community and my chosen charity is Age UK. So, I was keen to meet with two very enthusiastic members of Worcester u3a who have been educating me about the opportunities and clubs offered by their organisation. I was left with plenty of information about the organisation’s activities and events available to members.

Being the mayor, I’ve been exposed to and learnt new things. u3a used to stand for ‘university of the third age’. They no long use this description; it’s just u3a. It’s nothing to do with universities or academic qualifications – it is simply a social club for people who want to have fun.

For nearly 40 years, this group has been organising talks, outings, sporting and learning activities for those no longer in full-time work.  With over 900 members and 90 interest groups, this volunteer-led group has opened up a host of opportunities for Worcester’s retired and semi-retired residents.  Interest groups are led by members, keen to pass on their knowledge or passion, in a friendly, informal way.  No qualifications are needed to join and none are given. u3a’s strapline is “Learn, Laugh, Live”, the emphasis being on socialising and having fun.

The membership year starts at the beginning of September and for a modest yearly fee, members can join as many group activities as they can fit in their diary, as well as attending talks and social events. The exciting programme for 2024 includes a New Year lunch at Brown’s on the Quay, a quiz, a Beetle Drive and a Retro Disco!

If you would like to find out more about Worcester u3a, please see their website, www.worcesteru3a.org