To celebrate 50 years of friendship, the Frome Twinning Association welcomed members from its French twin town, Château-Gontier-sur-Mayenne, on 13th and 14th September.
The group travelled by car and ferry to Frome and were hosted by members of the Twinning Association. On Saturday, they visited the Frome Cheese Show to experience one of the town’s well-loved traditions.
“Cheese tasting featured strongly during their visit, and several guests bought cheeses to take home,” said Chair of Frome Twinning Association, Justin Worringham. “They also visited Lilley’s Cider, where they toured the cidery and enjoyed a BBQ courtesy of Chris Lilley.”
That evening, the Association hosted a buffet dinner for guests and members. Justin added, “Many thanks go to James Morrison for providing an excellent meal with a British theme. French visitors enjoyed starting with a glass of English sparkling wine.”
On Sunday morning, following a service at St John’s themed around peace between nations, a short ceremony took place in front of the church to recall the original signing of the twinning charter in September 1975.
“For this ceremony we were joined by the Mayor of Frome, Anita Collier, and Cllr Philip Campagna representing Frome Town Council, as well as many members of the public,” Justin said. “Dinah Bardgett, whose late husband Peter signed the original charter as mayor in 1975, read out his speech from 50 years ago, highlighting themes still relevant today.
“Visitors left on Monday morning, arriving home safely despite a rather rough ferry crossing.”
Former Twinning president Guy Michel, from Château-Gontier, said, “We will always remember this wonderful weekend with you.”
Frome Wessex Camera Fair at the Cheese and Grain in Frome, Somerset.
Photo © Tim Gander 2023. All rights reserved.
