HUNDREDS of people flocked to Craven U3A's first Skipton Summer School, making it a runaway success.

The two-day event was held at the town's Ermysted's Grammar School and U3A chairman Vic Edy was delighted with the turnout.

He said: “It was very encouraging to see so many of our members supporting this new initiative. The summer school is something of a departure from our usual provision because it offers a wide ranging 24-session programme all under the same roof.

“The atmosphere over the two days was marvellous - there was a real buzz in the air. The feedback we have had from our members was really positive with plenty of praise for the venue, the school staff who helped us, the summer school programme, and last but certainly not least, the wonderful cakes provided by Ermysted's PTA.”

The summer school was part of a celebratory programme put together to mark the Craven U3A's 30th anniversary.

Mr Edy added: “It's a really significant year for us and the summer school was the perfect event to mark the occasion. I think it is a remarkable that this self-help group has been a major provider of educational and social opportunities for retired and semi-retired people in our community since 1985.”

The summer school was formally opened by Ermysted's headteacher Graham Hamilton.

He said: "We were delighted that the school was chosen as the venue for this unique event and that the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. I am pleased that we have had the opportunity to take part in this initiative which celebrates and encourages life-long learning in our community.”

To find out more about Craven U3A, go along to its open day at Skipton Town Hall on Tuesday, August 11, from 2pm or visit cravenu3a.org.uk where the new programme and enrolment form for 2015/16 will be available from early August.