The University of the Third Age is a national organisation. It was founded in 1973 in Toulouse, France, by Prof. Pierre Vellas. It now has over 340.000 people around the UK who are members of over 950 (and rising) individual branches. Membership is open to all those who have passed the age of full time employment. Although called "University", no qualifications are needed to join, and none are given. It exists solely to allow social contact with like-minded people who share a common interest

U3A branches, and their groups, cover a broad range of topics, some recreational, some academic, all organised and achieved by members themselves, who are willing to share their knowledge with others.The Market Drayton branch averages approximately 250 members, and with up to 20 special interest groups. New members are very welcome, although some groups have a waiting list. These groups meet regularly in various venues, which is sometimes in a member’s home. The numbers in groups can vary from 4 or 5 up to the mid 40’s.