The University of the Third Age (U3A) began in Toulouse in France in 1972 and within a year it had become an international organisation.
It was not until 1981 that it reached Britain, when a registered charity, "Third Age Trust" was set up. Since then it has gone from strength to strength.

The word "University" is used in its original sense, when it meant a community of scholars. In Britain it has developed into a self-help organisation where mature individuals can share their skills with others. Within its ranks there are many academics but there are others with no formal qualifications. Whatever their background, they are all welcome.

For more information go to the web site "Third Age Trust".