The following is from Brian Harris of Maldon's Limebrook u3a:

"Limebrook u3a is celebrating its 10th Anniversary and we have some exciting events planned to celebrate being active in the Maldon community over the last decade.

"On Saturday, 14 May we have an Open Day at the Maldon Town Hall. This is an opportunity to meet our interest group leaders and committee who will be available to discuss the opportunities available to people who wish to expand their social activities and try some new hobbies and interests.

"Our monthly meetings are at the West Maldon Community Centre and at 2pm on 13 May we have Lisa Mitson, who is the Community Safety Officer for the Essex County Fire & Rescue Service, coming to talk with us. Her role sees her out and about in the community giving safety advice about a range of topics including home fire safety and water safety to help make Essex a safer place to live, work and travel. If you would be interested in joining us as a guest, please contact Tim Stubbins our Membership Secretary on 01621 855158 for details.

"The Walking Group explored Blakes Wood in Little Baddow to see the bluebells whilst they were at their best. The weather was perfect and the 14 people who made the trip had an enjoyable walk. Chris Smith kindly took a photograph to capture the event. Being with friends for a couple of hours in the sunshine and sharing a lunch is such a joy and they have walks planned each month.

"Unfortunately, the weather for the Photography Group outing was not so kind. On a wet and overcast day they ventured to Hyde Hall with the objective of taking pictures at this RHS venue. Undeterred, 20 members had their cameras and phones with them, and the images produced were later reviewed and Jo Madge won the competition with her entry. Jessica Patient came a close second, with both producing pictures reflecting the weather of the day. Lunch was enjoyed and quite a few hot chocolate drinks consumed.

"The Theatre Group, which is run by John Salisbury and Elaine Crome, have seen two shows recently, one in London and another at the Cliffs Pavilion in Southend. "Come from Away" in the West End was followed by an excellent meal at the Strand Palace Hotel. "Singing in the Rain" was a delight, and they are looking forward to returning to see "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat" later this year.

"Chris Dove arranged the last meeting of the Around the World Lunches before their summer break. The El Guaca Mexican Grill was the venue, and our 12 members had the back room of the restaurant to themselves. They were able to happily debate and laugh and enjoy good food and conversation without disturbing any other diners. 

"Maureen Leatherdale organised a trip to the Museum of Power for the Weekend Companions. Two new members were welcomed, and the tea rooms provided the chance to chat over lunch. The objective of this group is for members who are on their own and wish to go to interesting places and enjoy meals together. 

"For those who prefer indoor activities, we have a range of interest groups which meet each month. Liz Jones of the Poetry Group has expanded the numbers successfully and is welcoming three new people to their regular meetings in Maldon.

"All our Groups are meeting each month and other activities include Social Science, Family History, Scrabble, Music Appreciation, History and the Real Ale Group. Details of our Groups are on the website, just search for Limebrook u3a.

"To learn more about us, why not come along to our Open Day on the 14th of May? You can then see us face to face and learn why Limebrook u3a is a friendly place for people who are looking to Learn, Laugh and Live."