Whitchurch has once again played host to its French friends after a visit from twin town Neufchâtel-en-Bray last weekend.

Members of the the comité de Jumelage of Neufchâtel-en-Bray arrived in Whitchurch on June 8 for a busy weekend of activities

They were entertained well by the town's Town Twinning Association, under the guidance of chairman Andy Allen, who says the weekend has been a huge success.

"After a reception at the Dodington Lodge, the first night was spent with host families before the mayor, Councillor Tony Neville held a Civic Reception, which took place on Saturday morning," she said.

"A book of paintings of Normandy was presented to Cllr Neville by the President of the Jumelage, Jean-Pierre Boules, deputising for the Mayor of Neufchâtel. Our French guests much appreciated the range of traditional English cakes on offer.

"During the afternoon, many of our French visitors, accompanied by their hosts, spent time at the Party in the Park, while some ventured to the Ironworks in Oswestry to admire the Knife Angel, before everyone gathered together that evening for a meal at the Old Jack in Calverhall.

"Here, the President of the Jumelage presented the Twinning Association with a case of wines from Alsace. The evening ended with musical contributions from both parties.

"On Sunday, a delightful day was spent touring North Wales, ending in Caernarfon where a visit to the castle had been arranged.

"Early Monday morning, the French party assembled once more at the Dodington Lodge to return home. They all agreed it had been a wonderful weekend and are looking forward to receiving us next May."

The Twinning Association meets once and a month; anyone interested in discovering more or have membership enquiries to the secretary Val Webb, call 01948 663948.