Peter English from Redruth Oddfellows Receives International Recognition

Photo: Five of the eight Unity Meritorious Service Jewel holders with the two new recipients of the jewel in the back row, (left) Bro. Peter English from Redruth (right) Bro. Mervyn Eaton, Burton on Trent and in the front row, existing holders, Sis. Lynn Bradbury, Brighouse and Huddersfield, Bro. Mike Park, Cambridge and Sis. Maggie Winter, Past Grand Master of the Order, Norwich 

In a significant recognition of his dedication and service, Peter English from Redruth has been awarded the highly esteemed Unity Meritorious Service Jewel by the Oddfellows Friendly Society.

This accolade is one of the rarest honours within the society, with only eight recipients currently alive worldwide.

A Lengthy Nomination Process

The award, following a rigorous nomination process, was unanimously approved at a recent meeting chaired by the Grand Master of the Independent Order of Oddfellows Manchester Unity Friendly Society, Sister Barbara Needham. The meeting, attended by Chief Executive Sis. Jane Nelson, the 14 Board of Executive and Non-Executive Directors, and nearly 200 voting deputies from across the country, was a landmark event. The announcement was made during a visit by Deputy Sovereign Grand Master of the American Independent Order of Oddfellows, Brother Gerry Workman, his wife Sis. Cheryl from West Virginia, USA, and the United States Sovereign Grand Lodge Secretary Bro. Terry Barrett from North Carolina, USA.

Recognition of Another Dedicated Member

Peter’s close friend, Mervyn Eaton from Burton, was also recognised with the award of the Jewel after 36 years of membership. Formal award ceremonies for both Peter and Mervyn are being planned for later this year.

Peter’s Extensive Contributions

Currently serving as the Provincial Corresponding Secretary of the Plymouth and Truro District Oddfellows, Peter is a fully qualified Welfare Officer. His service record includes roles as Noble Grand (Chairperson) of several lodges, President of the Oddfellows Southern Group Conference, chair of the Unity Investigation Committee, and a Special Arbitrator. These positions highlight Peter’s significant responsibilities within the multi-million-pound fraternal and friendly society and non-profit mutual.

Peter’s Statement on the Honour

Expressing his gratitude, Peter stated, “This is the highest award the society can make other than being made Grand Master and I am deeply honoured to have been nominated to receive it. I express my heartfelt thanks to the Grand Master, Chief Executive, Board of Directors, Grand Lodge, Deputies, members, and friends and most particularly to my wife Tina, also a member who has supported me throughout. I am particularly pleased that my friend Brother Merv Eaton has also been chosen to receive this award and give him my sincerest congratulations.”

Join the Oddfellows Community

Meeting locally in Plymouth, Truro, Redruth, and other locations, the Oddfellows welcomes new members of all ages and genders. With a rich history dating back to 1810, the society offers numerous benefits and a supportive community.

For more information, visit the Oddfellows website: www.oddfellows.co.uk.

Photo: Five of the eight Unity Meritorious Service Jewel holders with the two new recipients of the jewel in the back row, (left) Bro. Peter English from Redruth (right) Bro. Mervyn Eaton, Burton on Trent and in the front row, existing holders, Sis. Lynn Bradbury, Brighouse and Huddersfield, Bro. Mike Park, Cambridge and Sis. Maggie Winter, Past Grand Master of the Order, Norwich