CARE home residents have proved that “you are never to old to make new friends” after becoming inseparable during the coronavirus lockdown.

Lily Bingham, 85, moved into Down Hall residential home at Bradwell-on-Sea during the third national lockdown in January last year.

Edith Collins, 83, also known as Squibs, became a resident a few months later after the death of husband John.

During the lockdown, they were often unable to see their own families due to visiting restrictions and their families living far away.

Lily has a son Mark, who lives in the area, but two of her daughters live in Liverpool and a third lives in Australia.

She said: “It can be hard not seeing my family in person, but having Squibs as a friend means the world to me and our friendship just keeps growing!”

Edith said: “Our friendship is very important, and Lily often makes me laugh.”

“We talk about our families and friends and reminisce about our childhoods.

“Lil always looks on the bright side of every situation. She lifts me up when I'm sad and I try to do the same for her. We support each other.”

Karen Johnson, manager at Down Hall, said: “The relationship that has developed between them is lovely to see and proves that you are never too old to make new friends.

“During the early stages of their friendship, visitors to Down Hall were limited.

“Lily and Edith’s rooms are next door but one to each other. They would just say hello in the corridor at first, and then pretty soon they were inseparable.

“The pandemic was a difficult time for us all, but these two ladies made something positive out of it. It’s inspiring to watch their friendship blossom.

“If Edith is not in her room, we can usually hear laughter and conversation coming from Lily’s room.

“The two like to sit and do jigsaw puzzles together, or just gossip and put the word to rights. They just really enjoy each other’s company.”