Twinning Association experience the culture and history of Château-Gontier

A large party of 26 from Frome recently returned from a very successful few days in Frome’s twin town of Château-Gontier in France.
They report, “The visit, between June 28th and July 1st, was made to participate in the annual meeting of the four twinned towns, Murrhardt in Germany, Rabka-Zdrόj in Poland, Frome and Château-Gontier. Frome was represented by former Mayor, cllr Sheila Gore, Charlie Orr from the town council, members of Frome Twinning Association and youth representatives.
“As part of the annual meeting, town representatives were able to discuss many exciting plans and proposals for joint activities and share recent developments in their towns.
“These included a continuation of the pilot work experience exchange programme for young people currently running between Frome and Murrhardt, as well as sharing of news articles about our towns written by young people. Also under discussion were a potential youth football tournament between the towns, building on the success of the visit this year to Murrhardt by the Frome Robins, as well as choir exchanges and possible school and teacher exchanges.
“As this year is the centenary of the end of WW1 we also discussed possible attendance at each town’s Remembrance ceremonies.
“We were able to experience the culture and history of Château-Gontier, get to know the local area, and take part in the summer street festival, La Chalibaude.
“The young people of the four towns were able to meet together in their own programme of events, which included a canoeing and camping trip. Local families welcomed all the participants into their homes, giving us all a chance to experience French family life.”
Justin Worringham, chair of Frome Twinning Association said, “This visit perfectly represented the spirit of twinning by encouraging people from the twin towns to meet each other, share experiences and cultures, and contribute to the bonds of friendship and co-operation between the people and towns of Europe.”
Next year’s meeting of the four towns will be in Frome between September 19th and 23rd, coinciding with Frome Carnival. For more information on twinning contact Justin Worringham on 462431 or at worringham@btinternet.com.