With Christmas approaching, it is the perfect time to reflect on the lively year enjoyed by Retford u3a members. Social activities have been a highlight, including a Pimms and Strawberries party to mark the group’s 15th anniversary, several Dinner and Quiz evenings at Retford Golf Club, and inspiring talks from guest speakers. The group has welcomed new members who have brought fresh ideas and enthusiasm to a wide variety of activities. If you are no longer in full-time employment and looking for fulfilling pursuits and enjoyable social connections, Retford u3a always welcomes new faces.
It has been a busy month for all the groups. The new Ukulele Group, Idle Frets, continues to thrive and attract new participants. The Military History Group consistently offers engaging talks, often delivered by its own members. The Gardening Group recently enjoyed a special presentation from Martin Fish, Gardening on the Menu: The Winter Table, accompanied by his wife Jill, who shared seasonal recipes using home-grown produce – including cheesy chilli butternut squash fritters with sage dip. The Photography Group has been out and about for this month’s challenge, What Is It?
Their creative images were featured in the latest newsletter, The Not So Idle Times. Some photos captured truly unusual objects – do you know what this one is? (Answer at the end!) There’s a group for everyone, and all it takes is a few like-minded people to get started. One idea being explored is a Craft Beer Group, which could hold regular meetings to sample a range of real ales and craft beers, discuss brewing techniques, and learn more about local breweries in a relaxed,
social setting. Activities could include pub visits, brewery tours, real ale trails, home brewing, and beer festivals – depending on the group’s interests. You are invited to attend the next General Meeting at The Well, Retford, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by Group Leaders and members
who can share more about their activities.
The meeting includes an entertaining guest speaker, with topics that are always varied and engaging. There is no meeting in December; the next one takes place on Thursday 22nd January with Simon Cork presenting American Presidents: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly. The committee is also seeking a new Membership Secretary, with the role becoming available from April 2026. If you have a few hours to spare each month and are confident using a database, please email memsec@retford-u3a.org.uk. Full training will be provided. Go along and sample one of the groups before joining – to find out more, visit http://retford.u3asite.uk. And that mystery object? It’s the organ pipes at Durham Cathedral!