Lockdown no match for silver-surfing Isle of Wight pensioner

Monica Duncan, 73, has ‘zoomed’ across the UK, socialising with Oddfellows members nationwide, and has even made a new friend on her own doorstep.

Monica, who lives in Cowes, is a member of the Vecta branch of the Oddfellows, based at Unity Hall in St Thomas’ Square.

She moved to the Island from Northern Ireland five years ago to be nearer to her grandchildren, and joined the Oddfellows to make new friends for herself.

With 2020 being such an unusual year, Monica is now frequently found chatting to fellow members online.

Marilyn, Monica and Maretta playing cards. Picture by Jason Swain.

She has also been helping to organise and manage the Vecta Branch’s weekly Zoom games afternoon.

“Surprisingly, lockdown has continued to be really sociable for me," said Monica.

"I’ve even been ‘going’ to virtual meetings with other Oddfellows Branches all over the country, which is something I’ve never done before.”

“I’ve also discovered a fantastic friend on my doorstep.

“We’ve been two years on the periphery ­— it’s only taken a global pandemic to bring us together."

Marilyn, Monica and Maretta chatting. Picture by Jason Swain.

Monica says the Oddfellows has provided her with a support network she couldn’t live without, and is sharing her story as part of the Oddfellows' Friendship month, which takes place every September.

Friendship month activities include a virtual afternoon tea on Friday, September 25 via Zoom.

Other regular weekly online events include music and musings on Mondays at 3pm, virtual coffee mornings on Wednesdays at 11am and crazy fun Friday games at 3pm.

Anyone interested in giving the group a try is invited to give them a call.

You should contact Maretta on 01983 523115 or email Maretta.Heap@oddfellows.co.uk

Future events are also listed online at www.oddfellows.co.uk/events