THE Bromsgrove branch of the U3A (University of the Third Age) this year celebrates its 21st birthday. To mark the event there will be a celebratory lunch on June 2 at Bromsgrove School.

U3A is an international movement with retired people coming together to provide both education and companionship for their own age group. No formal qualifications are needed.

Meetings are held fortnightly on Thursdays at 2pm in the Spadesbourne Suite in Burcot Lane where invited speakers entertain members on a variety of subjects.

In addition to the fortnightly meetings, there are special interest satellite groups which meet to enjoy history of art; Francophile and European studies; industrial history; landscape history; literature; music discussion and opera; playreading; philosophy; photography; rambling; Scrabble; Tai Chi and Victorian music. There are plans to also start groups for those interested in basic computing; bell ringing; cookery; gardening; local history; recorder playing; religions of the world; singing for pleasure and wine appreciation. Anyone who would like to visit initially with a view to becoming a member is assured of a warm welcome tomorrow (Thursday's) meeting. Those interested may also telephone membership secretary, Brenda Cullimore, on 0121 445 2495.