Back in the old routine

FRIENDS reunited... Nadine Simister (left) and Jean Heath in Australia

LONG-LOST school mates Nadine Simister and Jean Heath proved they really are friends forever after being reunited in Australia following 50 years apart.

The pals were best friends throughout their school days at Freehold Infants and Hollinwood Secondary before going their separate ways aged 15.

But a chance meeting with a mutual friend on website Friends Reunited saw the pals get together in January for a much-needed catch up.

Jean Heath (nee Shaw) emigrated to Melbourne, Australia with her first husband David and their four children in 1974.

She moved to Terrigal, New South Wales, 60 miles north of Sydney, and married second husband Charlie, from Cornwall.

Nadine Simister (nee Hall) lived above Halls Confectioners in Oxford Street, Werneth, before marrying husband John in 1964, and moving to Royton.

They had two children and moved to Lytham in 1972, with son Andrew moving to Sydney.

It was during a visit to her son in January that Mrs Simister finally met up with her friend for the first time in 50 years.

She said: “We had a lovely day with Jean and Charlie.

“We knew each other immediately and had a great time, despite the fact we hadn’t seen each other for 50 years.”

Jean’s brother Steve Shaw, from Denbydale Way, Royton, said: “They were best friends growing up and she’d often say she would like to meet up with the group of girls she was friends with.

“When Nadine went to visit, Jean was over the moon and they talked all through the night.

“I’m sure they will stay in touch.”