Society

A group of Oddfellows members from Norfolk have found friendship and support in a sisterhood after losing their husbands.

To celebrate our wonderful members and their contributions to the Society as a whole, we launched the first official Making a Difference Awards late last year, and after careful consideration from the judges, we’re ready to reveal the winners!

After representing Team GB at the 1960s Rome Olympics, Dorothy Shirley-Emerson travelled the world and enjoyed a long and happy marriage with her soulmate. But for stoic Dorothy – who dedicated much of her life to athletics after winning silver for the high jump – nothing could prepare her for the loneliness that came with going home to an empty house after her husband Jack died.

Vivienne Simpson, Welfare Visitor for the Burton-on-Trent Branch of the Oddfellows, has been recognised by one of the UK’s largest friendly societies, the Oddfellows, for going above and beyond in her caring for others.

Faye Chadwick, member of the Huddersfield District of the Oddfellows, has been rewarded for being a social superstar and shining example to others.

David Smith, a member of the Cleveland and Durham Branch of the Oddfellows, has been recognised in our Making a Difference Awards for his dedication to fundraising.

Bill Rainsbury, a member of the North West Kent Branch of the Oddfellows, has been singled out as an inspirational team worker and shining example to other members.

David Webster has been appointed External Non-Executive Director (NED) and will fulfil the responsibility alongside his current role as CEO of Douglas Macmillan Hospice, a specialised palliative care charity based in North Staffordshire.