Meetups to keep you connected this Christmas and New Year

The Oddfellows’ “Stay in touch this Christmas and New Year” initiative features a wide mix of online social events – all free and open to the public, not just members. The aim is to help people stay in contact, form new friendships, and enjoy companionship at what can be a difficult and sometimes isolating time of year.

Activities, hosted on Zoom, include quizzes, games, informative talks and relaxed social chats. Full details on how to take part can be found at www.oddfellows.co.uk/online-events.

Alongside the virtual programme, Nene & Welland Oddfellows is also organising in-person events over the festive period and into the New Year, giving people the chance to meet face-to-face in a warm and welcoming setting. The friendship group, which has around 400 local members, meets regularly in and around Market Deeping, Surfleet and Thorney.

Newcomers are welcome to attend any upcoming meetups, including: Aussie New Years Eve Tea Party at Coronation Hall, 16 Halfleet, Market Deeping. PE6 8DB. Book with Jenny on 07788 534290. £7 (£6 members). Vegetarian Lunch on Saturday 17th January at 12:30pm for £8 (£7 members) book with Jenny on 07788 534290 and a free talk by One You Lincoln ‘New Year, New You’ donations for refreshments on Tuesday 20th January at 10:30am book with the office on 01778 342006, both events at Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping. PE6 8AN.

Residents can also request a printed local events diary, which the Branch can post out on request. Anyone interested in trying the group is encouraged to get in touch to find out more.

Nene & Welland Oddfellows Branch Secretary Karen Earth said: “The festive season can be an isolating time. We want people in the area to know they don’t need to feel cut off or on their own – there are friendly faces and regular opportunities to connect through our group.

“All our events – both online and in person – are open for anyone to try. They’re relaxed, informal and designed to help people feel part of a community. We encourage anyone who’d like details of what’s happening to get in touch. We’re very happy to post out our events diary so people can plan ahead and join us whenever they’d like some company.”

The Oddfellows, a not-for-profit with 96 branches across the UK, is one of the UK’s oldest and largest friendly societies and supports friendship and community connection for people of all ages.

For further information about Nene & Welland Oddfellows, or to request a local events diary, contact [email protected] or phone the membership team on 0800 028 1810. All events can also be found at www.oddfellows.co.uk/events.