Birmingham Oddfellows is encouraging residents across Birmingham, Bromsgrove and Solihull to wave goodbye to winter by meeting new people and exploring the local area through its new season of social activities.
From scenic walks to day 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.
Liz Blackhurst, Branch Secretary, says friendship groups like Birmingham Oddfellows are a great way for people to meet others who enjoy similar activities and 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 Liz.
“For many people, it can be hard to find others who share the same interests, whether that’s going for a walk, visiting a local café or simply getting out and about for the afternoon. 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 walk or lunch can turn into a really enjoyable afternoon when you’re sharing it with others.”
Birmingham Oddfellows has around 250 local members, mostly older adults. Members meet regularly in Rubery, Kings Heath, Mere Green, Harborne, Bromsgrove and Solihull for walks, games, day trips (including recent holidays such as Torquay), as well as coffee mornings, quizzes and social catch-ups.
Upcoming events this spring include:
- Bromsgrove Cuppa and Chat: Monday 20 April, 11am – 12.30pm, Bromsgrove Golf Centre, Old Stratford Road, Bromsgrove, B60 1LD
- Mere Green Cuppa and Chat: Tuesday 21 April, 11.15am – 12.45pm, The Crown, Walsall Road, Sutton Coldfield, B74 4RA
- Rubery Cuppa and Catch Up: Monday 27 April, 11am – 12.30pm, Morrisons Café, Rubery, Birmingham, B45 9AH
- Kings Heath Cuppa and Chat: Wednesday 6 May, 11am – 12.30pm, The Billesley, Brook Lane, Birmingham, B13 0AB
- Harborne Games, Cuppa and Catch Up: Monday 11 May, 11am – 12.30pm, The Green Man, 2 High Street, Harborne, B17 9NE
- Solihull Cuppa and Chat: Thursday 21 May, 1pm – 2.30pm, The Royal British Legion, 18 Union Road, Solihull, B91 3DH
Marian Baker has been a member of Birmingham Oddfellows for nearly three years. For Marian, the group has been key to discovering parts of the local area she wouldn’t have experienced otherwise.
She said: “I’ve lived in the local area for a number of years and enjoy attending the Mere Green Oddfellows catch-ups. Since joining the group, I’ve been shown so many hidden gems right under my nose. It’s given me a completely different perspective on where I live, and I always come home feeling energised.
“There’s something special about exploring a new walk or trying a café or restaurant you haven’t been to before when you’re surrounded by good people.
“And the best part is that I’ve made genuine friends here.”
As well as attending events, Birmingham 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 each month, open to everyone, including a monthly virtual open day where people can learn more about its friendship groups.
To find out more about Birmingham Oddfellows, upcoming activities, or to receive a free local information pack and events diary, call 0800 028 1810 or visit www.oddfellows.co.uk.