EVESHAM U3A. More than 80 members filled the dining rooms of the Three Ways Hotel at Mickleton for the branch's traditionally-belated Christmas lunch. The chairman, Sophie Dodds, reported that the branch, which was formed barely four years ago, goes into 2006 having just seen its total membership rise above 400 for the first time.

CIVIL SERVICE RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP: Thirty members enjoyed the new year lunch held at the Round of Gras in Badsey. On arrival each member was given a strip of raffle tickets and at the conclusion of lunch prizes were drawn out. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 14 at 10.30am.