TWO care home residents who have been friends for more than 30 years have celebrated International Friendship Day with high tea.

Organised by Julie Mullen, activities coordinator at Dean Wood Bupa Care Home in Brighton, the team put on the celebration to honour Pam Homewood and Jean Scott’s friendship. 

Julie served Pam and Jean with a high tea, complete with a selection of cakes and a glass of fizz to mark their special friendship.

Pam, 93, said: “We had a fantastic time celebrating International Friendship Day and I am so grateful to the Dean Wood team for making our day so special. 

“I can hardly believe we’ve been friends for 30 years.”

Jean, 94, added: “Pam and I most enjoy sitting together and having a good old chat about our lives and International Friendship Day has been no exception to that.

“We spent the day doing what we do best – spending quality time together.”

Pam and Jean originally met through a mutual friend and have enjoyed long dog walks, many lunches out together, and lots of shared family stories.

Now as residents at Dean Wood, they still spend time together, having lunch together daily, sharing family stories and enjoying Fish and Chip Fridays – a particular highlight for them.

The duo also relish taking part in activities and are active members of the pamper club, quiz club and armchair exercise group.

When asked what their top tips are for maintaining a friendship for thirty years, Pam said: “We always look out for each other and make sure we have quality time together.”

Jean added: “We are each other’s chief confidante and always act as a sounding board when the other has a problem that needs solving. 

“I think that trust, when coupled with companionship, is a great way to maintain a long-lasting friendship.”

Neil Jenkins, home manager, said: “We encourage friendships old and new at our care home, so we are glad we had the opportunity to make Pam and Jean’s day extra special. 

“The commitment from our activities team to celebrate their friendship is real testament to the fantastic dedication of our team and I couldn’t be prouder.”

Dean Wood welcomes residents in need of nursing or residential care, including those living with dementia and Parkinson’s. 

For further information, visit https://www.bupa.co.uk/care-services