Southwell U3A welcomes 800th member, setting new record and becoming one of Nottinghamshire’s largest branches

Southwell U3A has become one of the largest branches in the county after it welcomed its 800th member.

Rosie Barnes, of Upton, became the 800th member when she joined in September, and was presented with a bouquet to mark the occasion by chairman Brian Platts at the regular monthly meeting.

Brian said: “We’re delighted not only that our hard work is paying off, but also that we are able to provide such a range of activities for local people who are no longer in full time employment.”

The group believes it is the management committee’s innovative and enthusiastic approach, an on-going press awareness campaign, social media presence and leaflet distribution at shows, markets and shops which has led to membership levels going from strength to strength in recent years.

More information about membership can be found on the Southwell U3A website.

A focus on making new friends, and an offering of more than 70 interest groups such as the arts, wellbeing, food and drink, science and the environment, languages, hobbies and pastimes, have also contributed to the popularity of Southwell U3A.

However, there’s no pressure to join any interest group, and members can also simply socialise with others and listen to the speaker at monthly meetings.

The group also hold twice-monthly informal coffee mornings at the café at Southwell Garden Centre, which are increasingly well attended.