Welcome to the Summer session of our u3a. I don't know how many Easter eggs and other chocolate items have been demolished by you all over the last 2 weeks but I hope you enjoyed every bite and have no regrets!
We have a lot of things planned for the rest of this term and into the Autmn term. They are listed here for you to out into your diary. We start with a new event, courtesy of the Acoustic Guitar group, and we hope you will come along and join in with us, singing some great songs. Please see the details below.
Acoustic Unplugged Tuesday 19th May 6.30-8.00. An evening with the Acoustic Guitar group in Lund House when you will be able to join in with a variety of songs from Pop to Rock, Folk to Blues. Bring along your choice of beverage, tea and coffee will be available and relax for an hour or so, with some good friends and good music. Space will be limited for this event so seats are available on a first come first served basis. Please email hancock8491@htmail.comto reserve your seat.
Party In the Park Date to be confirmed - Probably in the first week of June so watch this space. Last year was very successful so we are going to have another go!
Singing for Pleasure Summer Concert Thursday 25th June Victoria Centre. 7.30pm This is always a lovely evening spent with Tony Myatt and his wonderful singers, so make sure you all get your tickets in good time from the Town Hall or a member of the group.
Biddulph u3a Showcase Wednesday 15th July 10am to 1pm. Last year was one of our best years in the Town Hall. We had lots of visitors, and many of groups gained new members. Let's make it a good one for 2026!
Summer Extravaganza and AGM Monday 27th July 5.15pm to 8.30pm - Town Hall. Our night to come together and celebrate all the things we have achieved and enjoyed since our last AGM. There will be a variety of things to enjoy and a chance to sing and dance with friends old and new.
Singing for Pleasure Christmas Concert Thursday 10th December Victoria Centre. Further details to follow as we get closer to the event but always a great evening.
Biddulph u3a Christmas Party Wednesday 16th December 12.30pm - 4pm A memorable event in 2025 and something similar is being planned for this year. More details will follow in the Autumn term.
Other events
We had a very productive meeting with the Events Team a few weeks ago and lots of ideas were shared. The outcome of this meeting was the following.......
- .Line Dancing evening. Plans are being put in place to hold a Line Dancing evening, probably in the Town Hall, in the Autumn Term. No experience or special gear required, just an enthusiasm to have a great night! Details to follow.
- Speaker programme. Amongst our members we must have people who have had the most interesting lives, enjoyed interesting travels or had a lifelong passion for an interest or hobby. If you have a story other members might enjoy, why not get ready to share it with members who would love to hear about it. It doesn't have to long as we can always join speakers together for one event. If you would like to help us in this new venture, please drop me an email at hancock8491@hotmail.com and we will make a plan!
- Creative writing group. Just asking if anyone would be interested in being part of a Creative Writing group. If we get enough people, then off we go! Please email me if you are interested.
- Computer Group. We are really fortunate to have our own dedicated computer suite with 10 terminals available for anyone who would like to use them for any computer related group activity. It could be anything from sharing and developing computer skills to online chess or creative writing to maths puzzles! It's waiting for you to join with a few friends and get started. Please get in touch if you are interested.
Fire Risk Assessment
The rules and regulations for understanding and managing fire risks in buildings such as Lund House are always being updated and improved. We have just had our facilities and procedures inspected by an authorised fire inspection officer and an action plan has been drawn up. Updating the physical aspects of the building are relatively easily put in place but we may need some work to be done on the fire alarm system. Members will experience regular testing of alarms and regular fire drills. It's all there to keep you safe and you understanding and cooperation is appreciated.
Health and Safety Policy
We are in the process of updating our Health and Safety Policy. Amongst other things, there will be a reminder that all members have a responsibility to keep themselves safe by understanding fire evacuation procedures, using equipment properly, wearing appropriate footwear and clothing etc. It is important for members and Group Leaders to do their very best to engage in safe practices but, despite all this, accidents still happen. That's life. On such occasions, an accident form should be completed and posted in the letterbox in Lund House to help with our record keeping and management of risk. Thank you all for your help with this.
Committee business
Under the leadership of Tony Davis, we have completed our review of the Finance Policy. It was important we got this right and our thanks go to Tony for keeping things in order and the right side of numerous regulations. We are now working on completing an Asset Register and a policy for meeting the requirements of Copyright Regulations. It all takes time and thanks go to every member of the Committee for all the time and effort they put into their respective roles to make our u3a a great place for you to enjoy.
Have a great summer term and let's see all of you at one or more of the events planned for the coming months.
Very best wishes.
Bill Hancock.
Chair.