Although it seems like a long time ago now my working background was in education – first as a primary school teacher and latterly as an ICT Consultant for my Local Authority.

We moved to Sandbach from Manchester in September 2019, and I joined u3a shortly after and just before Covid hit. Membership of online u3a groups proved invaluable during lockdowns and helped cement my membership. When an appeal went out for new trustee/committee members I knew that I would have the time to give and I’m very much aware that you get far more from volunteering than you are asked to give.  Being new to u3a I didn’t anticipate taking on the Vice-Chair role but having had experience as a trustee of a small educational charity was happy to do so and learned a great deal very quickly! I’ve since picked up the reins as Chair and am enjoying the role which has several different aspects – from chairing committee meetings to being responsible for the governance and strategy of our u3a. Fortunately we have a brilliant committee with a range of skills and experience so the role isn’t as challenging as it may sound and means that our u3a can continue to grow and develop.

I belong to a couple of groups – Patchwork and Walk and Dine and I also run the Canasta group. When I’m not involved in u3a activities I can usually be found in my work room playing with textiles!