It’s been 20 years since Stone (Staffs) and District u3a was set up.

It all started with an idea and a public meeting in August of 2005, when a steering committee was formed to look into the possibility of having a local u3a in Stone.

Eight further meetings followed, the members of the committee changed a few times, but in the end the idea was turned into reality and on the 2^nd November 2005, Stone (Staffs) and District u3a was born.
The local population was invited to join and the committee began the search for volunteers to act as group leaders to facilitate the group sessions.

The first to meet was a Reading Group, who met on 7^th November, led by Annabel Evans and closely followed by a Photography Group led by her husband Bruce Evans. These were closely followed by a Digital Photography Group, led by Roy Clark, on 10^th November. Ultimately the two photography groups combined and are still going strong today, led by Bruce Evans.
Some of the other initial groups were, Meditation for Relaxation and Computer Short Courses.
See the photo of the first published groups list.

Annabel, Bruce and Roy are three of the nine of the original 100 members who are still members of the u3a today. The founding members also included, Ken Fulford, Ann Harris, Bob Jones, Sue Jones, Carol Keogh, Dave Roberts, Neil Robson, Sandra Robson, with Bob Jones stepping up to be the first Chairman of the committee.

Members of the initial committee include;
Bob Jones
Ken Fulford
Roy Clark
Bruce Evans
Sue Jones
Dave Roberts
Sandra Robson
Annabel Evans
Carol Keogh

"The current Committee wishes to thank the original founding members, and all members who have so diligently supported this u3a throughout its journey"

The current Chair, Chris Norcross added "On being asked quite recently how our u3a is doing, I'm proud of the happy, positive and supportive environment we all strive to maintain for our members, and intend to continue doing so for another 20 years!"

Of course, it also the 20^th Anniversary of the first groups. On 5^th November the Photography group celebrated the anniversary with an afternoon tea in honour of the occasion and celebrating Bruce Evans who has led the group for the full period.
The committee, past and present members invited were treated to a lovely cream tea, an exhibition of Bruce’s photographs and a slide show of photos taken by the group. Speeches by John Gore and Judith Tolly praised Bruce’s important role within the group.

Many thanks to Bruce Evans who has kindly provided much of this information.