Oddfellows From Cornwall Celebrate Success at National Conference

Llandudno Event Highlights Significant Achievements and Plans for the Future

Members of the Oddfellows Friendly Society from Cornwall and Plymouth have returned from the 2024 annual national conference, held in Llandudno, North Wales, with positive reports on the event’s success. The conference, which ran for a full week, featured a packed agenda and numerous activities.

Conference deputies gather ready for start of proceedings

A Grand Opening Ceremony

The conference was inaugurated with a ceremony attended by notable figures including the Worshipful Mayor of Llandudno, Councillor Michael Pearce, and his wife Lindsay. Other dignitaries included the Deputy Sovereign Grand Master of the American Independent Order of Oddfellows, Brother Gerry Workman, his wife Sister Cheryl from West Virginia, USA, and the United States Sovereign Grand Lodge Secretary, Brother Terry Barrett from North Carolina, USA. The Grand Master of the Independent Order of Oddfellows Manchester Unity Friendly Society, Sister Barbara Needham, and the Chief Executive and Secretary of the Order, Sister Jane Nelson, also graced the event.

Comprehensive Reports and Vibrant Activities

Nearly 200 voting deputies from across the UK, including representatives from Cornwall, joined the 14 Board of Executive and non-Executive Directors to review financial and fraternal reports. The financial side of the society, which manages investments and property holdings worth hundreds of millions of pounds, was a major focus. Additionally, the fraternal side’s activities, services, and benefits were thoroughly discussed.

The conference featured three days of business proceedings complemented by various events. Attendees enjoyed a concert by the award-winning Oddfellows Brass Band, a church service officiated by the society’s Anglican minister, and several social events. These included a Celtic ceilidh night, outside visits, dinners, and a conference centre filled with welfare and financial information and sales stalls. Significant funds were raised for medical research and other charities during the event.

New Benefits and Leadership

One of the key achievements of the conference was the agreement to extend dental and other financial, legal, and welfare benefits, which was well-received by members, especially given the rising costs of dental care and the decreasing availability of NHS services. A formal Grand Lodge session was also held, where senior members donned full ceremonial regalia. New departmental directors were elected, and the society’s rules were updated. Special awards were presented to members who have significantly supported the principles of Oddfellowship.

Reflections on a Successful Week

Sister Tina English from Redruth, Provincial Grand Master of the Plymouth and Truro District Oddfellows, reflected on the conference’s success, noting its impact on younger members attending for the first time. She emphasized the society’s long-standing tradition of supporting its members, stating, “It has been a very busy and successful conference week and a real eye opener for some of our younger members who have attended for the first time. Of course, the Oddfellows is all about people and looking after those who join us as members, something the society has done so well for 215 years. It really is a great organisation to belong to and offers so much.”

Welcoming New Members

The Oddfellows, founded in 1810, continues to meet for various social activities in Plymouth, Truro, Redruth, and other locations. The society always welcomes new members of all ages and genders, offering a wide range of benefits and a strong sense of community.

For those interested in joining, the Oddfellows provide numerous opportunities to engage in social activities and access the extensive support network of this well-established friendly society.