Well, here we are again — October already. Where did September go? Retirement definitely alters the laws of time!

The nights are drawing in, the leaves are falling and the weather has returned to its usual British setting of “make your mind up”. One minute we’re wondering whether we need sun cream, and the next we’re searching for the umbrella we swore we put somewhere safe last winter.

Meanwhile, Worksop & District u3a continues to demonstrate that retirement clearly isn’t about slowing down. Quite the opposite! Our groups and activities continue at a remarkable pace, proving that we have plenty of enthusiasm, curiosity and energy — although finding the energy after lunch can sometimes be a different matter.

I would like to say a huge thank you to all our group leaders, committee members and volunteers. Without you, the u3a simply wouldn't happen.

You give your time, energy, patience and, occasionally, your sanity to make everything work.

And believe me, as Chair, I know how valuable that is.

To our newer members, welcome. Don't worry if you don't know anybody yet. Just come along, introduce yourself and join in. Before long you'll know everyone's names. Unfortunately, you may then forget them.

Don't worry — just smile confidently and say, “Lovely to see you again.”

It works remarkably well.

So, as the leaves fall, the evenings draw in and we all start pretending that we haven't turned the heating on yet, let's make the most of the autumn.

Get involved.

Try something new.

Meet someone you've never spoken to before.

Laugh a little.

Learn something.

If you’ve ever thought, “I’ve always fancied having a go at that”, now might be the time. Remember, nobody expects you to become an expert. That’s the beauty of u3a — we’re here to learn together, and occasionally to discover that we knew even less than we thought we did…

And, most importantly, never underestimate the power of a well-timed cup of tea!

As the year moves towards its final few months, I hope you’ll continue to support our groups, attend our meetings and, most importantly, enjoy the friendship and good humour that make Worksop & District u3a such a great community.

So, enjoy October, embrace the autumn, and don’t forget: if you can’t find your glasses, check the top of your head first. Apparently, this is a recognised u3a survival technique.

I look forward to seeing you at our forthcoming events — assuming I remember where I left my diary….

With very best wishes,

Alison