I had heard about the u3a and the many activities they ran, so that was my first port of call. I had also heard from others that they felt it was a bit ‘cliquish’. If that was true, I would have to try to ignore it because my new mantra was say yes to everything for a year and then pare back later.
I went to my first meeting in Christ Church, Lord Street alone and I haven’t had a moment’s regret. A door opened which led to an exciting life full of new possibilities and more importantly new friendships. But it’s a two-way process and I’ve discovered that you get out what you’re prepared to put in. Cliquish? No, but the first step is always the hardest and it’s only fair to offer friendship as well as accepting it.
I signed up a year ago and in that 12 month I have enjoyed delicious meals in numerous restaurants, been to the theatre, visited many beautiful gardens and stately homes, met others for elegant afternoon teas, and I have just returned from a three night break in the stunning Lancashire countryside with nine others from the Meols u3a...
We met up (car sharing was sorted) in Burrs Park near Ramsbottom on a beautiful May day. Half of us sat in the sun and enjoyed a tasty lunch, while the healthy half went off to explore the country park.
We checked in at The Old Mill Hotel near Ramsbottom which was to be home for the next three nights. Just time to unpack before meeting up for a cream tea.
We had an excellent full board offer at the hotel - so every morning we refuelled with our choice of cooked breakfast, before setting off for that day’s adventure...
Over two days we split into various groups and between us visited the Fusilier Museum in Bury, Jumbles Reservoir, Summerseat garden centre and Manchester Cathedral - where one u3a member discovered a prominent marble plaque in tribute to a philanthropic relative - Dauntesey Hulme.
Our intrepid organiser Jacky almost missed a wine tasting, so determined was she to reach the Peel Tower. Mission accomplished.
Our final day was spent at Bury Market where, between us, we bought pounds of black puddings, every variety of meat pie and other local delicacies.
