Care home reunites school friends after 80 years

A care home in Oxfordshire has brought together two primary school friends after 80 years.

Until July of this year, Brian Busby, 89, was the only man living at Lyndhurst care home in Goring. The former soldier moved into the home four years ago.

When David Minchin, 90, arrived, he instantly recognised Busby, despite not having seen him since they were 10 years old.

The pair attended Goring Primary school on Wallingford Road, and although they were not close friends, they have now become good pals and enjoy a daily pint of Guinness together.

"I was shocked when I saw Brian," said David. "I didn't know he still lived in Goring.

"He was just a boy when I saw him last but he hasn't really changed.

"I always knew him as the 'boy who lived in the bus' as his family had a converted bus on a farmer's field near the railway station."

Brian said: "We often used to walk to school together through Wheel Orchard. And we knew a lot of the same boys so we have lots to talk about.

"We also share memories from outside of school."

The care home said Brian and David sit together for meals and enjoy David Attenborough documentaries and programmes about trains.

"I keep Brian out of trouble," joked David.

Activities coordinator Eleanor Preston said: "There must be something about our care home that draws people together.

"Brian has always been very happy here, but it's been wonderful to see him enjoying David's company.

"All of our residents have a good relationship, but shared connections help to make settling in much easier.

"It really feels like home when you've got common experiences and memories."