A local friendship group has celebrated a wonderful achievement by donating £3,850 to help people recovering from strokes. The Heart of England Oddfellows spent the last year raising the funds to support the vital work of the Stroke Association. Members across Warwickshire raised the money through cake sales, coffee mornings, supper evenings, and a sponsored 6.5 km walk.
The Stroke Association provides lifelong support for survivors and their families, with local groups meeting in Kenilworth and Stratford-upon-Avon. Group Chairman, Keith Newton, presented the cheque to Kathy Baxter from the Stroke Association during a special lunch on March 8, 2026. Keith chose the charity as his cause for the year because of his personal connection to the issue.
Keith said: "I've known several people over the years who have had strokes, so I've witnessed first-hand how important the Stroke Association's work is. I'm very proud to hand this money over on behalf of everyone at Heart of England Oddfellows. Thank you to those who donated and helped along the way."
The charity helps people navigate the difficult journey of recovery after they leave the hospital. Kathy said: "Thank you so much to Heart of England Oddfellows for its fundraising and subsequent donation to the Stroke Association – it is very much appreciated. At the Stroke Association, we give stroke survivors and their loved ones tailored support following their discharge from hospital. Stroke can happen to anyone at any age and its impact can be devastating, affecting all activities of daily living, which in turn can cause problems with things such as finances, work, mental health, social isolation. We support stroke survivors to navigate through their individual difficulties, give them hope for the future and help to rebuild their lives. This money will assist in doing just that."
Beyond their charity work, the Oddfellows host many affordable events in Leamington Spa, Kenilworth, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Warwick. The group has nearly 700 local members and is always happy to welcome new faces to their regular coffee mornings. They are inviting neighbours to an upcoming talk about first aid and how to use a defibrillator at Oddfellows Hall in Leamington Spa on April 14, 2026, at 2pm. You can also join them for lunch at the Windmill Inn in Leamington Spa on April 16, 2026, at 12pm. For those who prefer to stay at home, the society organises around 60 free online events every month. To find out more about joining the group or their upcoming activities, you can call Sue Newton on 01926 424 112.
