A GOOD citizen has been recognised for her efforts in setting up a new community group.

Maureen Gifford was the driving force behind creating the Tadley and District University of the Third Age (U3A) and has served as chairman of the committee since it was founded in March 2012.

The self-help organisation offers people who are no longer in full-time employment opportunities to share their life-long knowledge, skills and experience with like-minded people in a wide range of interest groups.

The Tadley group now has 530 members and 43 interest groups since it was set up.

Maureen was awarded a Good Citizen Award from Tadley Town Council at the U3A’s monthly meeting, and the accolade was presented to her by council chairman Councillor David Leeks.

Praising Maureen for her efforts, Jacki Cassidy, from Tadley and District U3A, said: “The impact of having such an organisation in the Tadley area should not be underestimated.

“It has changed the lives of many residents both locally and in the surrounding areas – quite an achievement. Maureen is an inspiration to us all.”

Tadley and District U3A meet on the third Thursday of the month from 10.45am to 1pm at Tadley Community Centre, in Newchurch Road.