The committee have worked tirelessly to improve our u3a. Increasing the number of interest groups, to 38, plus all the outings, trips & holidays.

For me, one event stands out, the end of WW2, Victory in Europe afternoon.

With the help of Marian and other members, we collected short stories and songs from the war time in Peacehaven and Newhaven areas. There were some sad moments, but everyone enjoyed the afternoon singing along and remembering people and events. With lots of flag waving.

A disappointing event was the summer lunch at the Saltdean Lido which 84 members attended. I, with 8 others, was on table 9, the last to be served. The service was slow and the food was poor. At one point 2 members stood up and said they were going next door to the carvery because they were so hungry. We did convince them to stay. Joyce has since obtained a part refund and a letter of apology from the caterers. Now we’re looking forward to returning to the masonic building for our Christmas lunch. 

I have witnessed many happy and not so happy events. We have lost several members, some of whom contributed greatly to our u3a. Our thoughts go out to all their families and friends.

John Harrison has now retired as editor of the Newsletter and Bulletin after many years of commitment. Our thanks to John who has been replaced by Rob Daglish. The committee look forward to working with Rob over the next few years.

I must repeat the request for our replacement Treasurer. Tony Garwood has to step down in September next year. We would like to recruit an assistant as well as a full treasurer. But, must impress on all members that we cannot, under u3a rules, continue without a Treasurer. This branch will close next September if we cannot find a replacement.

We have a good strong bank balance, due to our own fund raising. Unfortunately, we were unable to obtain any monies from the House Project this year, but we will make fresh endeavours during the next financial year.

I have been working closely with The Third Age Trust and the Southern Region u3a, attending several online meetings. Sally Ingledew, the Southeast Region Rep. has recently introduced a Facebook page for all Chairs in her region. We hope this will enable us to share suggestions and problems.

My thanks go to all members of the committee and support volunteers.

Buddies, group leaders, raffle organisers, refreshments makers, holiday, theatre and outings organisers and all the STAR helpers.

Thanks for all their work and efforts in assisting our branch.

Both the committee and I look forward to another successful year.