Though some had earlier ties, we
first met up and became a recognisable group when we went up to big school in
1960. That means that over this year we are reaching the seven decades mark,
with one or two of our number just a year or two behind. For getting on for sixty
of those years most of us have been following steam trains together. As an
example, here we are with a full turn out on the Welsh Highland Railway in 2012.
We have also kicked a football about for the same length of time and in most of
the places we have visited.
Friendship itself has been at the
heart of it. For me, that means you can pick up where you left off even if you
haven’t seen someone for ages. It also means that you are relaxed enough to
speak your mind without fear of offending. It means being forgiving, knowing
that you yourself have weaknesses that others have always been able to forgive
you for. It means accepting people as they are and keeping in mind the personal
characteristics that you have admired for all of that time. It means offering
support and empathy in times of need and being there when required. It means
enjoying each other’s company on the journey through life. Long may it continue.
For three photos thanks to Dave Beck
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