Colin and Luke are reunited
AFTER NEARLY 70 years apart, old school friends Colin Wright and Luke Murphy were reunited at a local community group.
The pair, now both 83, first met at St John’s Primary school in the 1940s, but lost touch after they left school.
They were reunited at St Columba’s Community Hall Brew and a Chat group in Halifax.
Colin said: “It was whilst attending the St Columba’s Christmas Fair that I came into contact with Luke who I had not seen since leaving school. We recognised each other, started talking and our friendship blossomed once more. We speak regularly on the phone, meet at the St Columba’s Community Hall Monday Club and help each other with odd jobs at the Church.
“It is wonderful to have found Luke after 70 years and I look forward to enjoying many more times together.”
Both men were called up for National Service in the 1950s. Luke went on to work in a glass manufacturing company and Colin worked as a painter-decorator.
They were invited back to their old school, to speak to pupils about their school days and friendship in an assembly.
They also taught pupils an old St Joseph’s rugby chant. They were also given a guided tour of the school, to see how it had changed.
Headteacher Mrs Angstmann said: “It was wonderful to welcome both Colin and Luke back to St. Joseph’s CPS.
“The pupils got to see - first hand, how after so many years, friendships can be rekindled. We were able to link the day with both History and PSE teaching and learning thanks to the wonderful memories both
Colin and Luke shared.
“We are thankful to Voluntary Action Calderdale for enabling this opportunity.”
The group meets every second Monday of the month.
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