FROM THE CHAIR

I have received the following information from third parties in which some of you may be interested.  If you would like further information, please contact the appropriate person as shown below. 

Take a trip to the South Coast.

You and your members are invited to join the first u3a getaways trip - The Agatha Christie Story - from 14-18 September 2026. You will join other u3a members from across the country to explore the beautiful houses and coastlines that inspired her famous mysteries.

U3a getaways is a new programme of bespoke holidays exclusively for u3a members and friends. Find out more on the u3a getaways website.

The Travelling Auctioneers.

My name is Iona and I am a researcher for the TV show The Travelling Auctioneers (broadcast on BBC One). We are currently casting for our brand-new series. Our show focuses on assisting individuals experiencing significant life transitions.This includes people who wish to downsize, clear out a family home or sort through overwhelming collections. Our team of expert auctioneers and restorers visits each home to uncover hidden treasures, restore items, and ultimately help participants make some money at auction.

I wanted to reach out and see if you might be willing to share this opportunity with your network? We want our show to truly reflect the rich diversity of the region. We are actively seeking applications from all walks of life.Thank you so much for your time and consideration in helping us find some wonderful local stories. I am happy to chat on the phone if you have any questions! Contact:Iona Shanks Researcher 0141 300 3852

U3A MAGAZINE - Third Age Matters

We have had a reminder for the Direct Mail Scheme 2026.  Members in the scheme receive 5 copies of the magazine. The charge is £4.00/year.

If you wish to receive the magazine, please confirm at the next meeting 18^th Feb, or contact me with the cheque at the address below, payable to ‘Chester City U3A.

I will have some copies of the magazine at the next meeting for anyone who hasn’t seen it.

B. Howard, 76, Crossfields, Tarvin, Cheshire. CH3 8EP (Ph: 01829741129)

U3A GIFT AID

A WORD ABOUT GIFT AID

Chester City u3a is a charity and your annual subscription is regarded as a gift on which we can claim Gift Aid and boost your sub by 25% if you are a UK taxpayer and are willing for us to do so. Media reports suggest that over the past 3 years, when the HMRC tax free allowance has not increased, more than a million people paid income tax for the first time. If you fall into this category

and are willing for us to reclaim Gift Aid please complete the form, which is at the bottom of this Newsletter, and email it to our treasurer or hand it in at our meeting.  Our committee suggest that everyone who is eligible should do so to ensure that we have a correct record and are not underclaiming from HMRC. Gift Aid is one of our few sources of income and provides about 10% of our budget.

Click button below to print a gift aid form.