THE February Open Meeting of Crediton and District U3A, the not-for-profit co-operation for those who are retired or semi-retired, included an informative talk by Omneya Ayed entitled: "An Introduction to Islamic Culture".

There was a record number of attendees (114) at this general meeting which reflected the interest that this topic generated amongst the audience. Omneya, who is a post-graduate student at Exeter University, answered a large number of questions which included the role of women in Islamic culture and Shariah Law.

The Crediton group has more than 250 members and there are many groups which meet either weekly or monthly.

These include Tai Chi, French, Mindfulness, Arts and Crafts, Walking, Science, Wildlife Walks, Pub Lunches, Spanish, Photography, History and Singing.

On the third week of every month members hold an Open Meeting (non-members welcome) at the Boniface Centre (doors open at 9.30am for a 10.15am start).

The entry fee is £1.50 and this includes a cup of coffee/tea, biscuit, a speaker and the chance to chat and learn more about the organisation.

A Creative Writing group has now started – please see the full list of groups and how to join on the website: U3asites.org.uk/crediton .

Membership is £12 per year.

The next Open Meeting is to be held on Wednesday, March 21 and will include a talk to be given by Joe de Witt entitled "Bonsai Trees". (Wednesday, April 18: "Devon’s Lost Industries" by Felicity Goodall). Please put the dates in your diary.

For more information please telephone David Agasee (chairperson) on 01363 775698.

Jo Poulton