Burnham-On-Sea’s University of the Third Age has received a special congratulatory message from The Queen as the group prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary this year.
A Lady-In-Waiting at Sandringham House has written to the Burnham group’s Membership Secretary Veronica Richardson: “The Queen was pleased to hear that your university is thriving, with over 50 groups covering a wide range of varied activities, and that your eldest member continues to enjoy attending the Creative Writing group at the remarkable age of 99.”
“Her Majesty was also interested to know that the Burnham-On-Sea U3A is celebrating its 25th anniversrsay this year with many special events and The Queen sends her congratulations and good wishes to you and all your members for a most enjoyable and successful year.”
The U3A, based at Burnham Community Centre in Berrow Road, has hundreds of members who take part in a wide range of activities from table tennis and Scrabble to walking and craft-making.
On March 11th, the group will mark its silver anniversary at the centre with a launch event, to be opened by the group’s oldest founder member Peggy Bessant.
Open to all from 11am, the event will also include an exhibition demonstrating the various activities of the U3A.
Then on May 11th a celebratory tea will be held for the founder members,
And from June 12th-24th there will be a display of craft work and activities of the U3A in Burnham-On-Sea Library.
In July a cream tea and other U3A activities will be held in St Andrew’s Church.
On September 15th, a concert will be held at The Princess with entertainment provided by the U3A Concert Party and Ukelele Group.
In October, a tree will be planted by the President, Ken Hindle, and a lunch will be organised for the whole of the U3A.
