September is the beginning of the new u3a year. A time to reflect on past successes and looking forward to future achievements.
Last year saw the re-opening of all activities post-Covid at Rotherham u3a, and a slow climb towards pre-pandemic membership numbers, aided by the introduction of new groups ‘Spanish for Beginners’, ‘Yarn Addicts’ and ‘Bridge’, plus improved community contact.
In December, a well-attended, Christmas Social, with Carols and Christmas songs led by the Singing for Fun and Ukulele groups, and seasonal refreshments, prompted the development of monthly social meetings, with speakers, quizzes and conversation.
February heralded the planting of a Rotherham u3a woodland in Herringthorpe Valley Park.
In April, the Ukulele group founded their ‘Thirty Chords of Grey’ band, entering the ‘entertainment world’ via a Conisborough Coronation Concert, before strutting their stuff at York St John’s University, u3a Music Fest, in June.
In June, Angie Nash, member of the Rotherham u3a Walking Cricket Group, was selected to play for Yorkshire Walking Cricket Team against Worcestershire Walking Cricket Team. She played brilliantly, helping Yorkshire beat Worcestershire in the Yorkshire team’s first county game.
August saw the transfer of Walking Football, sponsored by Rotherham United Community Sports Trust (RUCST), to Rotherham u3a. Grateful thanks to RUCST, particularly leader Andy Glossop, for his hard work. Walking Football should be available at Ru3a from September. Contact Tricia Macredie on 01709 370899.
A September addition to Ru3a activities will be Spanish for Absolute Beginners. Contact Michael Garrett 07494 806167.
Another Happy New Year! Visit the organisation’s stall on Saturday 2nd September, in the VAR tent at Rotherham Show. You can also browse www.u3asites.org.uk/rotherham or contact Lesley 01709 518248 or Sue on 01709 379379 for a brochure.