Thank You For Being A Friend

Having someone to rely on is something to celebrate. Ali Kirker speaks to great pals who can't imagine life without each other

"We're Friends For Life!"

Nina Butler and her gang of friends get on so well they even started a clothing brand and styling service, Tortue, together.

This group all have quite different lives and challenges - but their mutual support, and determination to make their business a success thanks to great teamwork, means they're friends for life.

It's not all seriousness, though - girly weekend get-togethers, lots of laughs and glasses of fizz are a must!

The friends are spread across the UK, from Southampton to Aberdeen. However this 16-strong group - Nina, Lisa, Amelia, Sophie, Michelle, Alison F, Ruth, Sue, Karen, Lizzy, Caroline, Angela, Alison M, Jennifer, Sharon and Suze! - know they can rely on each other no matter how many miles lie between them.

Over to Nina, Amelia, Caroline, Lisa and Angela to tell us more! "We're a diverse group but we got on immediately," Nina says. "You can just tell when someone is kind, it's really that simple. We gel because of decency, really - a generosity of spirit and just being totally lovely!"

"When we meet up it's like reuniting with friends you've had for years," Caroline adds. "Everyone is on the same wavelength, out to help each other and have fun!"

"We're all there for each other," Nina continues. "Sophie was very kind to me when I first met her. We have both lost siblings. Sophie's sister died of a brain aneurysm at 37, my brother died of suicide/depression, and she helped me massively when I was grieving.

"This year Michelle and Ruth have lost their dads and a few of us have parents with dementia/Alzheimer's - so emotional and challenging.

"Lizzy nearly died and had to have emergency bowel surgery. She proves you can still be stylish and glamorous with a stoma bag.

"I guess we are at the age where health, happiness and kindness matter most, so we are there emotionally to support each other.