We always welcome a Letter to the Editor, this one from Louis Lawrence with news about the IW branch of the University of the Third Age. Ed
Maybe the Guinness book of records should be paying attention to the Isle of Wight where the local University of the Third Age are claiming that they are the largest Island community group with approaching 450 active members ie, each of the members is part of an organised study group.
Over 40 groups
There are 43 groups ranging from French Conversation to Folk Dancing, from Needlework to Creative Writing, Calligraphy to Computers.
They meet on various days and times, many of them in each others houses, others in community centres and church halls at least once a month and often more frequently.
Broadening horizons
U3Agers are mainly retired folk or mature residents wanting to broaden their horizons by meeting with others willing to share their knowledge and experience.
Nothing too taxing, no exams to be studied for, anyone can join, just enjoyment and sharing for £10 a year.
They have regular general public meetings with talks from experts on many subjects of interest to older people, publish a quarterly news-letter about all their activities and also have a website.
