Local friendship group invites locals to explore and connect this spring
Nene & Welland Oddfellows is encouraging residents across North Cambridgeshire and South Lincolnshire to wave goodbye to winter by meeting new people and exploring the local area through its new season of social activities.
From trips and relaxed get-togethers, the friendship group has a variety of events planned throughout spring to help people connect and enjoy the brighter days.
Brian and Valerie Gale say friendship groups like Nene & Welland Oddfellows are a great way for people to meet others who enjoy similar activities, and to explore more of the local area in good company.
“There are so many incredible spots right on our doorstep, and as the days get brighter it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy them,” said Brian.
“For many people, it can be hard to find others who share the same interests, whether that’s visiting a local restaurant or simply getting out and about for part of the day. Groups like ours give people the chance to do those things together.
“We’re a friendly, down-to-earth group and we always enjoy welcoming people who’d like to come along and see what we’re about. Often a simple activity or lunch can turn into an enjoyable afternoon when you’re sharing it with others.”
Nene & Welland Oddfellows has around 400 local members, who are mostly older adults, but all ages are very welcome (including Junior members). They get together regularly for talks, meals at local restaurants, as well as enjoying coffee mornings, crafts and quizzes.
Upcoming events organised by the friendship group this spring, to which all are welcome, include Wacky Races, £15 (£12 members) to raise funds for Deepings Community Library (their charity of the year) at Coronation Hall in Market Deeping on Saturday 18th April at 2:30pm, and a Plant and Seed sale/ Coffee Morning on Sunday 26th April 11am – 1pm at Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping, PE6 8AN. To find out more please phone 01778 342006 or email [email protected]. There are meals out at The Fayre Spot, Bretton in May and monthly at Thorney Golf Club and The Crown Inn, Surfleet.
Brian and Valerie, have been members of Nene & Welland for 11 years. The group has been the key to discovering parts of the local area they wouldn’t have experienced otherwise.
They said: “We’ve lived here for about 12 years, but since joining the group, we’ve been shown so many hidden gems right under our noses. It’s given us a completely different perspective on where we live, and we always come home feeling energised.
“There’s something special about exploring a new place, learning something interesting from a talk, or trying an amazing restaurant you hadn’t been to before when you’re surrounded by good people.
“And the best part is that we’ve made lots of genuine friends here.”
As well as attending its events, Nene & Welland Oddfellows members can access a variety of benefits including care and welfare support and a travel club. There are also opportunities to volunteer and take part in fundraising initiatives.
The Oddfellows also hosts around 60 free online events every month that are open to everyone, including a monthly virtual open day where people can learn more about its friendship groups.
To find out more about Nene & Welland Oddfellows, upcoming activities and to receive a free local information pack and events diary, get in touch by calling Membership (freephone) 0800 028 1810, emailing the branch direct at [email protected] or visiting www.oddfellows.co.uk.