Love of music reunites care home friends after nearly seven decades

Former auctioneer colleagues from Dewsbury have been reunited 68 years after attending a singing group together.

Ex Holroyd and Pickersgill colleagues, Betty Teale, 88, and Brian Holroyd, 90, who last worked together almost seven decades ago, bumped into each other at Avery Mews care home in Heckmondwike where Mr Holroyd now lives.

They had not seen each other since Ms Teale left the company to get married in 1951.

'We have 68 years to catch up on'

Ms Teale said: “I knew it was Brian the moment I saw him, I would recognise his face anywhere! We lost contact when I got married as I was so busy helping my husband with his own business.

“We used to have such fun working at the auction house, they were great times and it has been wonderful to reminisce about this period of my life. I couldn’t be more delighted that we are back in touch.”

In 1964, at the age of 16, Betty started her career at Holroyd and Pickersgill Auctioneers as an office worker, handling admin for the estate agents and auctioneers. Betty left after five years to help her husband set up his own building firm.

Mr Holroyd, whose father owned Holroyd and Pickersgill Auctioneers, added: “We instantly recognised each other as Betty hasn’t changed a bit. I’m really looking forward to visiting her at Ashworth Grange – we have 68 years to catch up on!”

'Betty has even invited Brian to her birthday party next year'

Colette Senior, lifestyle manager at Ashworth Grange, commented: “Betty was absolutely ecstatic to run into Brian. As soon as she got home, she couldn’t wait to tell us all about it. Brian has already visited Betty here at Ashworth Grange where they enjoyed a lovely lunch and a good catch up.

"They have plans to meet again soon and Betty has even invited Brian to her birthday party next year. It’s a wonderful story and shows that real friendships can be reignited, even after so much time apart.”

Angela Blackburn, activities coordinator at Avery Mews care home, said: “Brian has not stopped talking about his chance meeting with Betty since it happened. We are all thrilled that he has been able to reconnect with someone with whom he shares such a vivid history. It’s a really heart-warming story that has had the whole home talking!”

Jonathan Kidd, partner at Holroyd Miller said. “I’m so happy to hear of Brian meeting up with an old colleague. My first job was with Holroyd Sons and Pickersgill.” Mr Kidd joined in 1984 where Mr Holroyd supported and guided him down a career path where he is still today. “I’m very proud to say I never left and thoroughly enjoy to this day. Brian retired in 1994 at which point I became a partner, but he never really left. He would visit every week to continue to support us with his wisdom.

"When we merged with Simon Miller Properties, we were keen to keep the Holroyd name and provenance of a much-respected family and business. Brian couldn’t have been more supportive with our plans for growth and development. I still visit Brian and will be sure to say hello to Betty if she is there at my next visit.”