Terry helps keep Southampton socialising

Updated: 28 Jan 2025

Terry Rendle, a member of Oswald Oddfellows, has been announced as 2024’s winner of the Enriching Lives Socially Making a Difference Award.

The award recognises Terry’s contribution to the organisation and running of social activities so that his fellow members have lots of brilliant events to enjoy. He was presented with a trophy at the Society’s annual conference in Llandudno on Tuesday 28 May.

Terry with his award in Llandudno

The importance of socialising

Terry, a retired mechanic and petrol tanker driver from Southampton, found the Oddfellows at a difficult time in his life. He said: “I lost my wife in 2001 and I was at a bit of a loose end.

“I can’t remember how I heard about the Oddfellows but I thought that it sounded good so went along to an event.

“I had no intentions of getting involved but ended up doing a lot more than I expected! I started going and bit by bit I got more involved.”

During his 12 years with the Society, Terry has volunteered his time to various roles within his Branch, including Vice Chairman, Chairman and a Trustee, and for almost all of that time he’s been the group’s Social Secretary.

Terry received his award from Chairman of the Society, Barbara Needham

Between the Oddfellows and a couple of other groups he attends, Terry enjoys that he’s always got something to look forward to and says his social life keeps him “on a balanced keel”.

He added: “Socialising is so important as you get older. It keeps your brain busy and your body busy which means you might last a bit longer.”

Invaluable contributions

Terry comes up with ideas for events, plans and advertises them, organises and purchases supplies, arranges catering, sells tickets, physically arranges chairs and tables in the room, taxis people to and from, hosts and clears up after. All this at the age of 84.

His events include indoor kurling, quizzes, musical concerts and day trips, just to name a few.

“At all the events we’ll have some food and I’ll do that,” Terry said. “I usually make a Ploughman’s Lunch and it always seems to go down well.”

Barbara Jackson, District Secretary at Oswald Oddfellows, said: “Without Terry, our events wouldn't happen, let alone be as great as they are.

“He cares that people have a reason to step outside their front door. A widower and a carer himself, he understands the importance of a shared cup of tea, a chat, and the opportunity to have a laugh or experience something new.

“He greets everyone he meets with a wonderfully warm smile, is interested in all they say, and actively ensures that they feel comfortable and have a good time.”

Terry is a true friend to all Barbara Jackson

Terry gave a thank you speech to those present in Llandudno

On winning the award, Terry said: “I was very surprised. I was flabbergasted. I had to read the letter three times before I realised what I was reading.

“The Oddfellows has given me more purpose in life. When my mum died my dad gave up and I would’ve gone the same way if I didn’t join.”

When asked what advice he’d give other people in the position he was in, he said: “Join it. It’s a wonderful organisation and if you get involved it’s very rewarding.”

Barbara added: “Terry is caring, empathetic and puts others happiness above his own. He is very engaging, which ensures both guests and members instantly feel welcome and at ease.

“Terry goes above and beyond as our Branch's Social Secretary. He is creative, dedicated, and can be relied upon from conception to completion. He is not just our Social Secretary, he is a true friend to all.”

Our other 2024 award-winners

Meet our other cherished award-winners on our Making a Difference Awards page.

Who makes a difference in your Branch?

If you know somebody in your Branch who has gone above and beyond to help and support members of the Oddfellows, why not nominate them for a 2025 Making a Difference Award?

Any member can nominate another member. You can learn more about the different categories in the Making a Difference Awards section of our website.

If you're interested in joining an Oddfellows friendship group, contact us and we can send you a free information pack and local events diary.