On Saturday 15th March Dukeries u3a held their annual Open Day, the purpose of which was to throw the doors of Ollerton Jubilee Hall open to the general public so they could see for themselves what their local u3a had to offer.
Group leaders set out their wares and invited visitors to sample a range of activities, from Bridge and Mahjong, to Creative Writing, to Rambling and playing the Ukelele – not necessarily at the same time!
In the afternoon, a very well-attended and lively concert, featuring u3a Banjolele group, Peaky Blinders, and the Jubilee Ukelele Band, went down a storm. Many of the Peaky Blinders were in period costume and looked stunning and the audience too were in great voice, joining in the songs with gusto.
Elsewhere, Dukeries u3a members were royally entertained by a visit from the self-styled ‘Baroness of Bolsover’ to Ambleside. Her ‘mission’ was to teach members the finer points of taking Afternoon Tea in polite society. They learnt such skills as to hold a cup of tea without unduly exposing their pinkies; how milk should be added after the tea is poured, and why fresh tea leaves – not tea bags – must always be used.
The accompanying Afternoon Tea was delicious, and the ‘Baroness’ had everybody laughing from the moment she entered the room. A most enjoyable time was had by all.
The u3a movement is a good way to make new friends and socialise or learn something new. There are a lot of good things happening at Dukeries u3a, which is open to all adults irrespective of employment status. Membership now costs £20.00 up to 31st March 2026 and includes access to all activities and interest groups, including those of the North Notts Neighbourhood Group.
To find out more please go along to up to two of their meetings, on the third Monday of each month, 12.30pm to 3.00pm, for £1.00 to cover refreshments. Alternatively, visit https://u3a sites.org.uk/dukeries/home.