New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 1
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The New Stour & Avon
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WIMBORNE, FERNDOWN, RINGWOOD, CHRISTCHURCH and SURROUNDING AREAS WINTER Wellness
Beat the January Blues - Join Wimborne U3A today! A
s the new year begins, Wimborne u3a is inviting people to shake off the January blues and discover a world of friendship and learning. With nearly 500 members and around 60 dynamic groups, there’s still time to enrol and join any of the available classes. From philosophy to poetry, tai chi to table tennis, bridge to ballroom dancing, French or Italian language classes, plus a host of walking activities, Wimborne u3a offers something for everyone. For just £60 a year, members can sign up to as many courses and classes as they wish, subject to availability. New classes include ‘Sound of Surprise’ jazz appreciation, ‘iPads and Iphones don’t bite’ to help you get up to speed with your own communication technology - and ‘Politics – the long view’ – perfect for those who love a lively debate. Chairperson Ashley Rowlands said: “We don’t want people to be put off by the ‘University’ in our title. All our activities are for enjoyment: there’s no exams! u3a is an excellent and affordable way of following new interests and making new friends.” He added: “More than just an educational initiative, Wimborne u3a plays a vital role in supporting individuals who may feel socially
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isolated, fostering connections and friendships within the local community.” One table tennis member shared their experience: “I’m 74 and there aren’t so many places where you can play for so little cost. I went along after a hip replacement to build up my strength and co-ordination. It’s done me proud.” Founded in 2002, Wimborne u3a is an independent charity under the umbrella of the Third Age Trust, offering a wide range of learning and leisure activities for those no longer in fulltime employment. Ashley Rowlands summed it up: “Our ethos is Learn, Laugh, and Live – and we believe you’re never too old for that! You may be new to the area, perhaps no longer bringing up a family, newly retired or semi-retired and looking for a hobby. As the population in Wimborne grows, we’re keen to reach out to new residents and newcomers in our town. “Don’t let January pass you by – join Wimborne u3a today and start the year with new friends, new skills, and new adventures.” For more information and to enrol, visit www.wimborneu3a.org.uk
A healthier life made easy with LiveWell W ADVERTISING FEATURE
hen the year changes, we think about lifestyle changes. If you’re looking to become healthier: lose weight, get a little fitter, cut down on alcohol, or stop smoking - look no further. LiveWell Dorset is your local dedicated health and wellbeing service, available completely free to every adult living in the county. Its friendly team takes the hassle out of making a healthy change.
BE WELL IN WINTER: Three pages of tips and advice P17-19
PADDLE DO NICELY: Photographic awards for canoeists P10
A YEAR ON THE FARM: Volunteers’ work continues unabated P26
Join Wimborne u3a TODAY!
TOP OF THE TOTS!
Easy to register online or by phone, LiveWell offers a whole range of options including slimming vouchers, smoking quit kits and 1-2-1 coaching, with no catches, no cost. LiveWell takes away the guesswork and the stress of scrolling and Googling, offering a one-stop service you can trust.
Get personalised support and the perfect package to help you break down any barriers, build confidence, and see results - beginning with small, clear, achievable goals. No quick fixes, just a lifestyle change that lasts. Register online at www.livewelldorset.co.uk or by phone 0800 840 1628.
£60 A YEAR
50 dynamic classes and groups in your local area Learn new skills | Make new friends
Explore a host of learning and leisure activities for those no longer in full-time employment. Make 2026 the start of a new adventure.
For more information and to enrol, visit:
www.wimborneu3a.org.uk membership@wimborneu3a.org.uk
Toddlers bring joy to care home residents p25 LOCAL, LOYAL & TRUSTED PLEASE CALL FOR A FREE VALUATION OF YOUR HOME
www.hearnes.com Ferndown office | 01202 890890 | Wimborne office | 01202 842922