Wells Community Day: u3a shines with lantern parade

Ann from Wells u3a talks about a recent community day which enabled them to make connections in their local area - and which finished with a fantastic lantern parade.

Ann from Wells u3a talks about a recent community day which enabled them to make connections in their local area - and which finished with a fantastic lantern parade.

Treasurer Mike and group leader Carolyn standing by the Wells u3a stall.

On Saturday 20 January, Wells held a Community day in the Cathedral, all chairs put to one side and tables were set up down the aisles for local groups and charities to promote their "wares". There were over 70 stalls - including Wells u3a.

Our aim was to confirm links with the community and to inform residents about our organisation and make new contacts. Our display boards noted all the groups available along with photos from many of them. Another board showed pictures of our holiday to Suffolk last year and of our 30th anniversary celebrations. Over 80 flyers spreading the word about us were handed out and 12 potential new members signed up to join.

The Cathedral was buzzing with so many folk all keen to take part and learn about the huge number of groups active in Wells and surrounding area. Dance, musical and singing groups entertained everyone during the day to add to the atmosphere.

Photo taken by Brendon Doyle - showing member Sue with the u3a lantern.

In the evening a spectacular Lantern Parade processed from the Cathedral , via the Bishop's Palace and eventually completing its tour in the Market Square. Our lantern- a Montgolfier balloon, made by some of our members, joined in with many hand made lanterns in the parade.

Pictures attached: Mike Lee our Treasurer and Carolyn Adams a group leader by our stall in the Cathedral. Also Sue Revell carrying our lantern as it set off around the Cathedral. This picture taken by Brendon Doyle