Chairman Hosts Members of Crossmaglen U3A

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin hosted a reception for the Crossmaglen The Universities of the Third Age (U3A) group on Friday 26 April, in Downshire Civic Centre.

The Crossmaglen group arranged a tour of Downpatrick including all Council buildings, and Councillor Murnin hosted them in the Council Chamber and gave a brief tour of the historic building.

Councillor Mark Murnin said, “I am delighted to host this visit today for Crossmaglen U3A group and I wish them every success in the future. So often all of our resources are targeted at youth programmes and we forget to make time for those within our community who have played a valuable role in shaping the district into what it is today. I have no doubt that the group will go from strength to strength.”

U3As provide opportunities for people to come together and learn in an informal setting and are likened to youth clubs for older people. The programme recognises the skills and interests of Third Agers and allows them to share their skills and knowledge in a social atmosphere.

The group has a programme of activities planned for the coming season and includes academic, recreational and social activities, appealing to a wide range of interests and enable those involved to develop their creative talents and improve their quality of life.

Newry, Mourne and Down district has one of the youngest populations, but there’s plenty to do for those still young at heart.