Award honour for Bill's 'Midas touch'

Updated: 28 Jan 2025

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.

71-year-old Bill (pictured) has been presented with the prestigious Oddfellows Making a Difference Award for ‘Working in the spirit of mutuality’. The national award celebrates those who make a positive difference to the running of the Society’s local Branches.

Speaking about his award in relation to his contributions to North West Kent District Oddfellows, based at 42 The Brent, Dartford, Bill says: “I was over the moon when I heard. There are 49,000 members across the UK, so to be singled out is a great honour.”

Originally a mechanical engineer by trade, before turning his hand to driving a bus at age 50, Bill freely admits that a lot of his choice investments on behalf of his local Branch have been quite lucky! He adds: “One of my greatest achievements as a member is the part I played in the extending and full refurbishment of the Lodge room in Dartford. My “sketch on a serviette” handed to the architect, was exactly the vision I felt was right for my fellow members. It’s amazing to see the physical results of my ideas.”

Bill joined North West Kent District Oddfellows in his youth and now supports his Branch in the role of Trustee, taking care of the financial practicalities, such as investments and refurbishments.

Bill is a wonderful ambassador for his local Branch and our Society, and we’re incredibly proud of him. Jane Nelson, CEO

Bill’s colleagues and fellow committee members say that he has a ‘Midas touch’ in all things finance and property-related, and that he is an inspiration – leading by example in an upbeat and encouraging way.

Oddfellows CEO Jane Nelson joins in her praise of Bill, saying: “He is very much valued for his energy and ideas. We’re a mutual, so we’re run by our members for our members and Bill is an excellent example of how, as an individual, you can really get involved and make a difference. He’s a wonderful ambassador for his local Branch and our Society, and we’re incredibly proud of him.”

Can you help us to find our 2020 award winners?
If you know a member at your local Branch who deserves some special recognition, why not nominate them for a Making a Difference Award? Any member can nominate another member, it's just a matter of filling in a quick nomination form, available to download from the Members' Area.