Survey says that long-lost friends wish to be re-united

Ninety per cent of us wish to reignite a relationship with an old friend but are too frightened to make the first move, according to a survey* by The Oddfellows, a friendly society celebrating 200 years in the business of making friends and helping people.

Of those surveyed, 78% could not recall the reason for the falling out with a friend in the first place, with the average time of two years since they last spoken to a pal from the past.

Too busy (39%), too distracted (54%), or anxious about the negative reaction (18%) that we might get, are just some of the reasons preventing us from getting in touch with a mate that once made us happy.

To coincide with its anniversary, Oddfellows is encouraging people to 're-friend' a chum that they once had with a national 'water under the bridge' reconciliation day on 19^th July to celebrate friendship rediscovered.

Furthermore, the survey found that more than 36% believe that if they were to revive the relationship, it would add value to their lives and potentially open doors to build further friendships with others.

Interestingly, almost 70% said that they would use social media sites to make initial contact to re-friend a companion, rather than picking up the phone, or paying them a visit.

Oddfellows' Georgina Ralston, said: "It's human nature for people to fall out from time to time, what we think is really sad is when time passes and there is regret where perhaps, instead, there could be a re-kindled relationship.

"We know we're not going to be able to broker a positive conversation for everyone who has ever had a disagreement, but it's sad that, sometimes, we fall out over the daftest things, and it stays that way.

We're talking about people who fell out when they were six in a silly argument over teddy ownership or are 20 years on from a row they can't even remember - but still miss the friend.

"So we're looking at creating a friendship focus online throughout the summer."

Top five things people would do to show that they are sorry:

1. Buy the person a drink
2. Send a card or email
3. Send a message via Facebook
4. Give them a Kiss
5. Give them a hug

The online campaign to gather potential re-frienders is already underway ahead of a day celebrating friendship rediscovered.

The Oddfellows' Friends Reconciled Facebook page is open to anyone who would like to open the door on a closed friendship - and simply kiss and make up!