U3A mark 25 years and move to new premises

Valerie Cobain, trustee, NI U3A and Brendan McConvill,e Chairperson of Newry U3A, cutting the ribbon at the new U3A premises at Ballybot House.

It was also the occasion of the official opening of our new premises in Ballybot House by Valerie Cobain, N. Ireland Trustee of the U3A.

Also present was Adriennne Brown, Chairperson of U3A N.Ireland.

They were among other invited guests and the Newry U3A Committee, at the cutting of the ribbon at our new premises.

Committee and invited guests, including Cllr Gareth Sharvin, Vice Chair of Newry Mourne and Down District Council.

n her speech Valerie congratulated both members and leadership for the vibrant and innovate work of Newry U3A.

Newry U3A came into being in 1988, in a terraced house in Catherine Street, with the help of a number of local organisations and members from Foyle U3A.

By 2001 there were 93 members and by 2009 we had to move to the old Abbey School, because of the increase in numbers. Numbers grew and by 2020 we had almost 700 members attending activities.

As with other U3As Covid took its toll on numbers, but we have now over 400 members and increasing rapidly. There are 37 activities which include five languages, lace making, art, gardening party, pieces, golf and many more.

The social aspect of coming together is constantly highlighted by members. The caring that is embedded in our U3A community is manifest in so many ways, especially in the Memorial Service each November for those members who have died during the year.

Our 25th celebration consisted of a slide show and display boards giving a visual history, interspersed with comments from members on what Newry U3A means to them. Comments like: “It saved my life” and “U3A is where I have time for myself.”

Newry Chairperson Brendan McConville, one of the guest speakers, urged members not just to look back but to look now to the future and work together to make the next 25 years as successful as the last.

After the speeches there was a very enjoyable buffet lunch.

The 25th U3A celebrations concluded with dancing, Line Dancing, Jive, and Ceidhle Dancing.

We in Newry U3A say THANKS for all that has been and YES to all that is to come

If you wish to know more about the U3A why not call in to our new premises at Ballybot House or contact Paula in the office at 07436 899673 between 8 30am and 12 30pm.