A HUGELY successful branch of a university for retired people celebrated its 10th Anniversary recently.

The U3A have nearly 1000 branches around the country, and the Harwich branch held its 10th Anniversary celebrations on April 12 at the Cliff Hotel, Marine Parade, Dovercourt.

The national chairman, Pam Jones, was a special guest on the day.

Pauline Gronow, the local Chairman said " We had a really good meeting with a speaker, Alex Bass, and a presentation by our own Snappers Group.

"The newly formed Recorder Group accompanied the audience of over 100 members singing Happy Birthday, whilst the cake was cut.

"Pam Jones also spoke to the meeting. She was most impressed with our group and wished us continuing success.

"We have over 300 members and 50 interest groups, which include subjects such as languages, art, philosophy and walking, so something for everyone."

She added: " The Harwich branch has grown a lot over the past ten years; it started off with a few people wanting to learn to play bridge and had 70 members by the end of the first year.

"The U3A is a self-help learning organisation which aims to give purpose and stimulus to those in retirement, and has certainly proved successful here in Harwich"