U3A branch goes from strength to strength

Chairman David Nesbitt welcomed all to their well-attended monthly meeting. Everyone was keen to hear details of the variety of activities and outings planned for the following month.

For example, the gardening group are looking forward to a tour around the walled gardens at Glenarm Castle, followed by a get-together for lunch.

The Visual Arts group is planning an outing to Carrick Castle, again followed by lunch.

There’s good news for those who enjoy crafts of any kind, as Dorothy Dean is in the process of starting up a group. Whatever level members have reached is of no consequence as the basis is to have an enjoyable get together while learning skills from each other.

The Opera and Ballet Cinema group had its first outing in July to see the Andrew Lloyd Webber production of ‘Love Never Dies’ at the Odeon cinema, The group’s next outing was to enjoy ‘La Traviata’.

When the leaders of each group concluded their updates to members, David Twigg of Balance House gave a slide talk on the First Battalion of Malaysian Rangers.

He explained how he and other members of various regiments from the UK were sent to Malaysia to set up this new regiment which included the various cultures living in the area and how a pipe band was formed successfully against all the odds.

Mr Twigg was shown warm appreciation by members for his knowledge and enjoyable talk on such an interesting snippet of history.

The next U3A meeting with be on 2pm, on Monday, August 20, in Joymount Hall, Carrickfergus.

U3A is open to all semi-retired/retired individuals. If you feel you would enjoy the companionship of like minded people while pursuing your favourite hobby or even a new one, you will be warmly welcomed at the monthly meeting to find out more.

Alternatively, visit the website east-antrimu3a.org.co.uk