Catherine Louise TurnerRetired or no longer in full-time work? A thriving community group is offering local residents the perfect opportunity to learn new skills, share hobbies, and meet friendly people right on their doorstep.
The Garforth, Kippax & District u3a has issued a warm invitation to residents across Garforth, Kippax, Swillington, Micklefield, Scholes, Barwick in Elmet, and surrounding areas to join its rapidly growing community.
I was recently delighted to be invited by committee member Catherine Dobson to spend an afternoon as a guest at one of their popular monthly meetings. From the moment I arrived, the vibrant atmosphere was unmistakable. During my visit, I even tried my hand at a brilliant wildlife quiz, experiencing first-hand the stimulating, joyful environment that lies at the heart of this organisation.
Originally formed in 2017, the local branch is proudly run by members for members under the philosophy of “learning for pleasure,” and it has seen spectacular growth over the years. Today it boasts a vibrant community of 322 members.
A Flexible and Welcoming Environment
Having been a member for years, Catherine Dobson recently joined the committee to help support the group’s ongoing success. Sharing her overall impressions, she highlighted the incredible flexibility the organisation offers to everyone who signs up.
“I really enjoy it,” Catherine said. “There’s plenty of things to do and absolutely no pressure to do anything, so you can mix and match if you like. There is just so much to do.”
Catherine, who actively participates in both the history and activities groups, feels strongly about giving back to the community that gives its members so much.
“I think it’s important to be on the committee or to take part,” she added, “because the u3a is very much run by members for members. You will be fully supported to set up a group yourself if wanted.”
Sharing Skills and Building Friendships
The warm reception I felt at the meeting starts right at the top with Chair Penny Brighton, who extended a wonderful welcome to me during the afternoon. Reflecting on her own journey with the organisation, Penny shared how much it has enriched her life.
“I thought I’d give it a go,” Penny explained. “Since joining, I have made very many new friends, and we are all very much in each other’s social lives now.”
As Penny and I were talking, Publicity Officer and Groups Co-ordinator Sue Larkin joined the interview. Sitting down together at the table, the two leaders proudly revealed the impressive scope of the branch’s activities, announcing that the thriving organisation now supports 322 members across 36 active groups.
“Anybody who has an idea for a group and is able or willing to run that group initially, we as the committee will help and support them,” Penny stated.
Highlighting the current line-up, Penny and Sue explained just how diverse these member-led sessions can be. They noted that for those who enjoy the great outdoors, the branch hosts three distinct walking groups, carefully tailored for different fitness levels with routes under five miles and over five miles. Language lovers are equally well catered for, with active groups currently running for French, Italian, Spanish, and German.
Challenging the Brain
For many members, the u3a provides the perfect opportunity to stay sharp and dive into brand-new subjects. Regular member Catherine Horner explained that she was looking for a fresh mental spark when she discovered the group.
“I came because I wanted something to challenge my brain a bit more,” Catherine shared. “I needed something that made me think. I looked around and saw this.”
She quickly found her niche within the branch’s educational offerings. “The art history group and quiz are things which I really like, and I’m learning a lot from this. I’ve also done presentations myself, and I do really enjoy it.”
“Just Do It – Join!”
Maurice Norman celebrated his landmark 100th birthday on 4th February, receiving a congratulatory card from the King and Queen. He discovered the u3a three years ago after seeing it advertised on their website, and he quickly immersed himself in the history, quiz, and German groups.
Maurice first began learning German during the war while serving in the army in Germany. Today, his specialty is writing poetry in the language, having penned around 60 poems. Through these activities, he has met a whole new circle of friends.
“They are all a good bunch,” Maurice said. “It has added to my quality of life. Without the activities and the friendships, I’ve made here, my life would have been dead. I lost my wife, Erica, 13 years ago, and since then I’ve been entirely on my own. It’s her birthday today; it’s a sad day, but also a happy one. I’m here and not by myself.”
He urged anyone thinking about signing up to take the leap: “Just do it – join”, he said, adding: “There will always be something here for you. The last thing I want to do is to sit at home watching television. The u3a means that I don’t have to do that. I’m active.”
Behind the Scenes Success & Well-Being
Sitting together with Penny, Sue offered an insightful look at the diverse community makeup and the incredible personal benefits the groups offer.
“We have some married couple members, and we have a lot of single members as well,” Sue shared. “They get involved in the groups, making it their social and mental wellbeing.”
She emphasised that the diverse range of activities targets both body and mind. “Our cycling groups keep people fit, getting out, meeting other people, and making friends.”
Importantly, Sue highlighted how inclusive and accessible the branch aims to be for all local residents. “We even have members who come along with their carers,” she noted.
Proving that the branch is constantly evolving, Sue and Penny jointly revealed an exciting new addition to their massive schedule: “We have just started a Mahjong group,” Sue announced, referencing the popular, strategic four-player traditional game played with beautifully carved tiles.
Much of the branch’s modern success and visibility is driven by its exceptional digital presence. Publicity Officer Tony Robinson truly enjoys working on the web portal, designing and running the official website alongside his deputy, Mick Denton. Tony frequently receives glowing compliments about his sleek, accessible web design. Their highly informative site generates a significant amount of excellent publicity, serving as a primary gateway for attracting new members like Maurice to the fold.
Activities take place mostly during the daytime on weekdays, offering a fantastic opportunity to fill the calendar with stimulating conversation, weekly hobbies, and social outings.
Affordable Community Connections
Membership costs a modest £15 per year. This single fee covers access to all 36 local activity groups, as well as the branch’s monthly general meetings. Organisers emphasise that no formal qualifications or prior experience are needed to join – just enthusiasm and a willingness to take part.
How to Get Involved
- Monthly Meetings: Held on the first Wednesday of every month. Non-members are warmly invited to come along, grab a cup of tea, and chat with existing group leaders.
- Find Out More: Discover full group listings on the official website run by Tony and Mick.
- Social Media: Look for regular updates via the Garforth, Kippax & District U3A Facebook Group.
- Homepage: Garforth, Kippax & District u3a website
- About Page: About Us – Background and Information
- Membership & Fees Page: Membership Information
- Sign-Up Form: Online Membership Registration Form
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