We are pleased to be forging links with our community partners in the Ollerton, Edwinstowe and surrounding villages. This will provide further opportunities for our members to take part in local projects and workshops. We take an active part in promoting our organisation in local libraries and events. In December 2023, u3a members were pleased to help Edwinstowe and Dukeries Lions when Santa Claus visited Ollerton Tesco. We were also pleased to be at the Edwinstowe Christmas Light Switch On Event in 2023 and supported this event again in 2024. The Dukeries Christmas trees made fantastic displays again in St Mary's Edwinstowe, St Paulinus Ollerton and Ollerton Library.

Last year, on Sunday 7th May, the community celebrated our past and present history by starting with a commemoration held at RSPB Sherwood Forest of VE Day, followed by a celebration of the Coronation of King Charles III. This was a community focused event, providing the opportunity for the local community to get together with friends and family for a once in a lifetime historical celebration picnic. There was a full programme of music throughout the day, including the Nottinghamshire Band of the Royal Engineers alongside local groups and choirs. The event closed with a rousing Finale performance from the band with lots of flag waving. Dukeries u3a took part in the event to promote our great organisation.

In June 2023 with kind permission from RSPB Sherwood Forest, Dukeries u3a joined with our fellow North Nottinghamshire Neighbourhood Groups in celebrating and showcasing our organisation with a Party in The Park. The sun shone and a grand time was had by all.

Dukeries u3a members enjoy singing with the Dukeries Singers and The Major Oak Pop Choir. Our popular Jubilee Ukulele Group entertain throughout the area in local venues including care homes. They delight in sharing the stage with the Dukeries Singers, helping to raise funds for charity.

At the AGM held in May 24 our members voted to again support the Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance as their chosen charity. We are so pleased to have already smashed our £6000 target before the end of the year. Please see our latest news from the charity on its designated page.