THE West Wiltshire group of the University of the Third Age will celebrate its 32nd anniversary on Wednesday and is looking for new members.

The U3A in the UK began in 1982 and is celebrating its 39th anniversary this year with the aim of giving older people a chance to continue learning.

But over the years it has become much more than that and now offers members an opportunity to discuss topical issues and learn new skills as well as to socialise with like-minded people.

Kate Winfield, a trustee of the West Wiltshire U3A Group, said: "It’s the biggest community organisation open to all residents in West Wiltshire who have time on their hands and by far the most versatile.

"Groups range from antiques to Zumba with painting, pilates, philosophy and Mah Jong and a host of others in between.

"Right from the start it’s been run by, and for, members and they are encouraged to make their own suggestions for activities. Line dancing? Certainly. Rummikub? Er, we can give it a go.

"All that’s needed to start a group is a leader, interested members and somewhere to meet," said Mrs Winfield, 78, of Stancomb Avenue, Trowbridge.

"Many groups, like the popular soup and pudding group are – or were – held in member’s homes.

"Costs are kept to a minimum because it’s self-funded and mostly peer-led. We hope to attract more members because it truly changes people’s lives and is not exclusively for 'wrinklies'!"

Mrs Winfield added: "Current annual membership is just £15 a year and this gives entry to more than 60 different interest groups plus the monthly meetings, where we have talks or presentations on diverse topics.

"The organisation provides all sorts of benefits. For the recently unemployed or retired it can offer structure and a sense of purpose and an opportunity to try new skills.

"It’s a chance to share an enthusiasm with like-minded people and offer help to run what is a large and flourishing organisation.

"For others, the social side is important. Groups like knit and natter or current affairs help members to enjoy the pleasures of conversation.

"U3A has been a lifesaver for those living on their own. Many lasting friendships have sprung up thanks to the U3A."

She added: "In ‘normal times’ there are computer groups for every level of ability; trips, outings and collaborative efforts, like the National High Street Project.

"This aims to survey shops across the UK with a view to providing information leading to the ability to expand investigations into other related areas and regenerate town centres.

"Covid-19 has cut a swathe through all kinds of social activities and the U3A has suffered as much as any other but group leaders have found ways of maintaining contact with members.

"Technophobes who regarded IT as one of the dark arts have found themselves getting to grips with Zoom and, for example, the short story group has gone on line.

"Now, with restrictions lifting, the U3A is getting ready for a busy year ahead."

The West Wiltshire U3A Group is based in Trowbridge but other groups are flourishing in Bradford on Avon, Warminster, Westbury, Kennet and North Wiltshire.

For more information and to join, go to www.u3a.org.uk or the local website at www.westwiltsu3a.org.uk.