Friends to raise your spirits
IT WAS a different world and one in which Tony Goble felt completely lost. He had been married to his soulmate, Rosemary, for 17 years when she died in 2016. They had travelled the world together and shared a wealth of happy memories.
Tony was getting older – he’s now 87 – and began to drift into loneliness. Taking the initiative, he reached out to the Oddfellows.
The friendship group has been bringing together people and offering support for more than 200 years – and now it was Tony’s turn.
“I had known about the Oddfellows for years, but after Rosemary passed away, I felt alone and I became curious about what they could offer,” he says. “I wanted to get out and start living my life again.
“So last year I decided to pop down to my local group and see what they were all about.”
Formed in 1810, the Oddfellows is now one of the UK’s largest friendly societies with more than 314,000 members across the UK. Its 126 local branches hold regular social events and activities throughout the year, ranging from coffee mornings and afternoon teas to dining out, day trips, talks and quizzes.
“Getting involved has had a huge impact on my life,” says Tony, of Bournemouth.
“I’ve become part of a social scene again and it has helped raise my spirits and beliefs that great friendships can be made at any age. I stay in touch with really kind people and have things to look forward to all the time,” he added.
“I was quite nervous going to my first meeting, but as soon as I walked through the door I was met with welcoming smiles. I immediately felt at ease and knew I’d made the right decision.
“I’m not as mobile as I once was, but with the support of the group and fellow members, I’ve enjoyed a variety of activities including trips to the coast, meals out and regular cake and coffee mornings.”
With a renewed spring in his step, Tony says: “I wasn’t sure I would make friends this late in my life, but being part of a local social group has given me a renewed confidence to try new things and meet new people.
“I hope my story inspires others to be brave, get out there and enjoy life with new friends. If you’re thinking about joining a local friendship group, give the Oddfellows a try.”
INFORMATION: To find out more about the Oddfellows (oddfellows.co.uk) and to receive a membership pack and local events diary, call 0808 302 6807 or email enquiries@oddfellows.co.uk