Society

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

We’re delighted to welcome David Randall to the position of Grand Master, Chairman of the Society for 2019-2020. He’s a gentle, quick-off-the-mark convivial character, who sells the Oddfellows at every possible opportunity. What’s not to love? We stole a bit of his time to find out more about the kind-hearted Gipping Branch Secretary from Colchester.

A Great Yarmouth community garden project has received a £500 cash boost from the Trafalgar Branch of the Oddfellows, as part of Mental Health Awareness Week.

According to our recent research, a quarter of people who have suffered a close personal bereavement have lost touch with friends, with many becoming socially isolated after their loss.