Honouring Decades of Dedication: Cornwall Oddfellows Celebrate Meritorious Award Presentation

Photo: Peter English, Jane Nelson and Mervyn Eaton

Members of the Oddfellows Friendly Society from the Plymouth and Truro District recently gathered for a celebratory lunch at the Oddfellows Centre in Burton on Trent. The journey was long for the Cornish attendees, but the warm welcome and grand festivities made the trip worthwhile.

Recognition of Distinguished Service

This significant occasion celebrated two highly respected Oddfellows members, Peter English from Redruth and Mervyn Eaton of the Burton on Trent District. Both Peter, who serves as the District Secretary for Plymouth and Truro, and Mervyn received the prestigious Unity Meritorious Jewel, an internationally recognised award granted for their long-standing dedication to the Oddfellows society. This award, reserved for those with exceptional service, has only been bestowed 250 times in the organisation’s history, with Mervyn and Peter marking the 249th and 250th recipients, respectively.

Peter, who has been a devoted member for over 52 years, is one of only five individuals in the Plymouth and Truro District to receive this honour. He attended the event alongside his family, including his wife Tina, who currently serves as the Provincial Grand Master of the Plymouth and Truro District.

📷KODAK Digital Still Camera

Photo: Chief Executive Officer and Secretary of the Order Jane Nelson addresses the luncheon gathering

A Banquet to Remember

The formal lunch featured four courses and a selection of fine wines, with the Oddfellows Chief Executive Officer, Jane Nelson, presenting the Meritorious Jewels to Peter and Mervyn. Other notable attendees included Paul Laffey, CEO of the YMCA in Burton upon Trent & District, with proceeds from a raffle raising over £500 to support the charity. This banquet-style event was a testament to the Oddfellows’ commitment to community support and friendship, values that the society has championed since its founding.

A Rare Honour

The Unity Meritorious Jewel, a unique design dating back to the early 20th century, is crafted from solid gold. As the second-highest honour within the Oddfellows, it recognises the remarkable contributions of members like Peter and Mervyn, who have collectively served for over 88 years.

Photo: The Unity Meritorious Service Jewel

About the Plymouth and Truro District Oddfellows

The Plymouth and Truro District is part of one of the UK’s oldest and largest friendly societies, welcoming members of all ages and backgrounds. The society provides opportunities for friendship and support, offering access to welfare services, a travel club, and social events. Those interested in joining or learning more about the Oddfellows can contact Peter at peter.english@oddfellows.co.uk or by calling 01209 200810. Further information is available at the Oddfellows website, where a free information pack and event diary can be requested.

This gathering underscores the Oddfellows’ enduring commitment to enhancing lives through community and service—a tradition that continues to thrive across Cornwall and beyond.

Photo: Peter’s table