Every month, five lifelong friends gather at The Old Swanne Inn in Evesham, continuing a tradition they started 64 years ago. Kim Bright, David Day, Brian Wells, John Collins, and Michael Stephens first met at Prince Henry’s School in 1953 and promised to stay connected after their farewell pint in 1960. Decades later, their monthly “lads’ night” remains a cherished event, with some even traveling from as far as South Africa to keep the tradition alive.
The group, now in their 80s, describe their bond as that of a “band of brothers.” For them, these meet-ups are more than just a social gathering—they’re a time to reminisce, share laughs, and uphold the promise they made as teenagers. Despite advances in technology, the friends say nothing compares to the joy of connecting face-to-face.
Each member treasures the familiar faces and easy camaraderie that has stood the test of time. Their story is a heartwarming reminder of the enduring power of friendship and the value of making time for the people who matter most. As Mr. Wells encourages, “Put the phones down, meet up, and make memories in person.”