AGM Report

The AGM was held before the speaker session at Claygate Village Hall on 2nd April 2025. 

The Chair introduced the Committee and thanked them all for agreeing to serve another year. He reported on another very successful year with an increase in membership to over 1500. He also thanked the many volunteers who help to maintain an active and lively u3a.

Since the last AGM the documentation has been updated, a new website launched and two new Committee members have volunteered to stand. A relationship with the River House Barn has been firmly established and we will be seeking close links with other organisations where we can realise opportunities that benefit both parties. The Cecil Hepworth Playhouse being one such organisation.

A new award has been set up to recognise the outstanding contribution that volunteers put in to the u3a. The very first “Unsung Hero’s Award” was recently presented to Cliff and Jane Clifford for their tremendous effort and dedication to Pickleball which has brought so much pleasure and wellbeing to so many members.

The Chair then introduced the Treasurer who explained the accounts for the year. He stated that although higher costs were likely in 2025 our bank balance remained very positive so it was unnecessary to increase the membership fee for 2026. A member asked whether it wouldn’t be wise to increase the fee now, but the treasurer explained that Elmbridge u3a should only hold sufficient funds to cover expected expenditure and not to build up a large surplus.

Meg James