The festive season is nearly upon us and already there is a smattering of inflatable Santa’s and illuminated reindeer in front gardens. Some have just turned on the house lights they left nailed to the eaves last year (or even the year before). Christmas music is also becoming more prevalent in shops and will no doubt soon be driving the staff crazy.
But we u3a members are made of sterner stuff and are planning a host of yuletide activities. To see everything that is happening take a look at the events page.
Peter and Penny
Long time members of Ash u3a Peter Churchley and Penny Thomsett are standing down as group leaders of Table Tennis and the Quiz Team. We will miss them as group leaders, thank them for everything they have done and we hope we will still see them around.
Fred R. Barnard
Who is Fred R. Barnard you may ask (unless you have already Googled his name)? In 1927 he first used the phrase “One Picture Worth Ten Thousand Words” in an advert. How does this apply to us in Ash and the local environs? We all like looking at pictures and they can convey so much more than just words. So if you could take some pictures of you and your group enjoying your Christmas party, quiz, ramble, walk or whatever, with your permission we can convey the joy to other members of Ash u3a.
Help Needed
One of the stalwarts of the committee Eileen Monds will be ending her long stint as Secretary at the AGM in 2026. This might seem like a long time away but a replacement needs to be sought very soon to ensure a smooth handover. If we do not have a Secretary Ash u3a will cease to exist as this role is mandated by both the Charity Commission and Third Age Trust.
Creative Writing
We have a new group! Toni Allen has kindly volunteered to run a creative writing group. If this is something you are interested in joining all the details are on the Creative Writing page.
Group Activities
Some groups are now reporting back on the things they have been doing. It’s becoming a great place to see what we are doing in Ash.
So far we have contributions from Science and Technology, Photography, Book Worms, Ambling, Healthy Walking and Ramblers, Art and Painting, Family History, Tai Chi, Thursday Lunchers, Line Dancing and Singing for Pleasure.
Would you like to see your group in the page? If so get in touch.
The Groups Co-ordinator
After many years in the role Sally has handed over the reins of Group Co-ordinator to Michelle (who just happens to be the wife of the current Chair).
Michelle says:
I have recently retired from a long career in insurance and banking where I was commuting into London regularly and visiting clients around the country. In all this time I have met people from all walks of life with all sorts of stories. But the long hours and commuting took it’s toll which is why I decided to retire and now have time for new challenges.
I moved to Ash in 2003, living on the Old Farm Place development, before moving to Aldershot in 2012. I have retained my links with Ash and the U3A through my husband Graham’s leadership of the Tai Chi group. Since retiring I have joined his group and am starting to explore others as my new calendar develops.
I am looking forward to coming round to meet you and your groups – and to learn about your passions and hear your stories.
We wish Michelle well in her new role.
December Monthly Meeting
No speaker this month but a chance to get together for a mince pie (or two) and glass of mulled wine, cup of tea, meet friends old and new, take part in a quiz and listen to and perhaps join in with the world famous Singing for Pleasure group.
And it’s free! A bit of a bargain at 2.30pm on Tuesday December 16th at St Mary’s Church Hall.
If you are interested in finding out more about us, please use our Contact Form. We will respond with any information you require on our activities or how to become a member. Please see the Membership & Renewal Page for details on how to join Ash u3a.
