Dear Members,

Following our recent Committee meeting on 6 February, I am delighted to confirm that Emma Hart Dyke, our current Vice Chair, has agreed to stand for the position of Chair of Banstead Area u3a at our Annual General Meeting on 21 October 2026, when I will be stepping down after completing my three-year term of office.

The Committee unanimously supports Emma’s willingness to take on this important role and we are most grateful to her for offering to serve, subject to election at the AGM. As always, the position of Chair remains open to any member of Banstead Area u3a who may wish to put themselves forward.

Emma would also welcome hearing from any member who might consider supporting her by standing as Vice Chair, with the opportunity this provides to gain experience and potentially stand for Chair in three years’ time.

In addition, we will be saying farewell to our much-valued Business Secretary, Anne Kemble, who has carried out her responsibilities with great dedication and efficiency, including taking minutes at Committee meetings. We are extremely grateful for Anne’s significant contribution.

These roles will therefore become available from 21 October 2026 after the AGM. Banstead Area u3a is in a strong and positive position: our finances are sound, and there is a wealth of support and experience available within both the Committee and the wider u3a community to assist anyone stepping into these positions. Over the past three years, our membership has grown from around 500 to more than 800 members, and the introduction of our thriving Social Team has brought considerable enjoyment, friendship, and opportunity to our organisation.

If you would like to find out more about any of these roles, or would appreciate an informal discussion before making a decision, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would be very pleased to talk things through and answer any questions you may have.

With kindest regards,

Jennifer Russell

Chair

Banstead Area u3a