MEMBERS of Bude and District U3A at their recent meeting were treated to an interesting and emotional talk about Mercy Ships, a charity that is rarely heard about.

The talk was given by Alan Newcombe, who was excited about telling the story of Mercy Ships’ mission to bring hope and healing to some of the poorest nations on earth.

U3A vice-chairman Lynn Biggs said: “Imagine a hospital ship with state of the art equipment, staffed — by volunteers — with doctors, surgeons and nurses providing world-class treatment and even more. Then imagine it’s all provided free of charge to anyone in need. This is Mercy Ships.”

Alan shared his own experiences working aboard this remarkable vessel, and how it changed his life forever.

The U3A’s next meeting is on Thursday, February 18 at 2.30pm at the Parkhouse Centre where Andrew Harris is giving a talk on Magistrates in the Community.

The group’s next coffee morning at the Weir Café is on Friday, February 5 from 10.30am to 12.30 and all are welcome.

To find out more about Bude U3A contact Ann Tizzard on 01409 253749 or visit www.budeu3a.co.uk