A very grey and chilly morning certainly didn’t dampen the mood of 40 members as they set off for a day in Murcia. The sky began to clear as they arrived in the city and they were soon off to explore, maps in hand, but maybe a coffee to begin with! Murcia has so much to offer with its beautiful Cathedral, Casino Real, Episcopal Palace and numerous museums. As the visit coincided with the start of Easter week buildings were adorned with beautiful banners and palms, and the flower beds were a kaleidoscope of colour with thousands of kalanchoes planted. Quite magnificent. The Travel Co-ordinators, Paul Heaps and Anne Cox can be seen in the photo full of the joys of Spring! U3A maybe an association made up of retired members but they certainly don’t lack enthusiasm.
In the week prior to the visit at the monthly General Meeting, members had been requested to donate Easter eggs or chocolate for the children of needy families in Alfaz del Pi. An outstanding 130 items were donated for the Food Bank to distribute ensuring some very happy children over Easter.

On Friday 24 April 30 members enjoyed a day trip to Javea, with the morning being spent in the historic centre and the afternoon at the port. Many visitors going to Javea often head for the sea front without realising the interesting places to visit in the old medieval town. The old fortified walls of the town still visible in the narrow streets, the 14th century Fortress Church of San Bartoloméa, the Palace House of Antoni Banyuls housing the Museum of Javea and even the market built in 1946 is certainly worth a visit. Down at the Port the fishermen´s church “Mare de déu de Loreto” with its boat shape wooden ceiling tends to be more impressive on the exterior than the interior and for those who like a little retail therapy there are plenty of interesting shops and of course numerous restaurants and bars.

The May trip is to Villena and in June to Cartagena providing more opportunities for the members to find out more about the towns and villages within a 2 hour drive of Benidorm.

April General Meeting

Thanks to the generosity of members supporting the raffles held at their monthly meetings the Association are able to regularly help local charities. April’s meeting was no exception. Sixty four members attended on Monday 27 April and 230 euros was raised for the charity fund. The Charity Officer and Vice President, Elizabeth Potter, had contacted City Streets Community Project and their Treasurer, Sharon, accompanied by one of their volunteers attended the meeting and were presented with a donation of 500 euros. They explained to members the work of the Project in helping to ensure between 60 and 80 homeless people in and around Benidorm have access to a nutritious meal every day and during the winter warm clothes and blankets. Local businesses and volunteers prepare the meals and help to distribute them for which they are extremely grateful. Fund raising is ongoing in order to establish a safe shelter in Benidorm for homeless where they can have a shower, a place to meet and receive help and advice from caring volunteers. Such a worthwhile charity to support.

Find out more

U3A Marina Baixa have over 12 groups offering a range of activities and events for their members. If you would like to become a member their next General Meeting will be on Monday 25 May at 11.00 am in the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi. A link to obtain further information can be found on their website u3amarinabaixa.com or their Facebook page.

If you would like to be able to take advantage of events organised by U3A Marina Baixa their next General Meeting will be on 25 May at 11.00 am in the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi. Membership is just 10 euros for the year. Why not go along to find out more or alternatively check out their Facebook page.

Joan Flint, Publicity Officer