Home to Home Autumn 2016

Devon Twinning Circle

Annual General Meeting

The Devon Twinning Circle Annual General Meeting is on Saturday October 15th. 2016. It will be held at The Masonic Hall, Crediton, EX17 3AR. at 2pm.

Lunch will be served at 12:30pm at £6.50 a head.

The menu will be:- Pate, Salmon or Hunters Chicken with selection of vegetables. Choice of Desserts - Vegetarian option available. If you have any dietary needs please advise well in advance. We hope you will be able to join us for Lunch. Meals need to be booked The committee look forward to seeing you and other members of your Association at the meeting. If you are able to wear a badge with your name and Association on please can you do so. It is for better and easier communication with other members. Badges and a pen will be available for you to make one if necessary.

There are 4 vacancies on the committee at the AGM. One is a committee member having to retire due to ill health. The others due to retiring members having served their 2 years. They are eligible for re-election but new members are always welcome. Would you like to join the committee? There are 4 meetings a year held on the 3rd Saturday in January, April, July and October. Contact Secretary Pat Sherwood Email: [email protected] or Tel: 01363 772103

REPLY SLIP with your PAYMENT PLEASE

I would like to book lunch for …….. person/s at £6.50 a head. Please return this slip with your cheque made payable “ Crediton Twinning Association” Mr. P. Evans, Shirley House, Elston Lane, Copplestone, Crediton, EX17 5NS. 01363 84356. By 8th October. Your choice of main course please tick and state how many.

Salmon Hunters chicken Vegetarian Special Dietary

FROM…………………………………………………………….ASSOCIATION NAME…………………………………….

CONTACT NUMBER …………………………………… Tiverton town Twinning Association host visitors from Chinon May 2016

Thursday May 19th a day we had long awaited, but our wait was not as long as expected, as they arrived fairly well on time. Unfortunately, the fine day we had had, decided at the last minute to change, and the arrival was marred by rain, the first time I can recall rain at the actual arrival. But greetings were exchanged and it was off to home for supper and a good night’s sleep.

Friday we met at Tiverton Football Club and left promptly for a coach trip to Palmer’s Brewery at Bridport. It was a fine morning, the countryside looking its Spring best, and was much appreciated as we took the ‘pretty route’ over the hills from Cullompton to Honiton. As I recall the number of sheep in the fields caused great interest. Arriving safely at our destination, we were split into 4 groups for the visit. Fridays happen to be the ‘cleaning down’ day at the brewery when there is no actual brewing taking place, and so, it was explained, we got a bit extra on the tour, being permitted to see into places normally forbidden through ‘Health & Safety’. A fascinating tour, made enjoyable by a guide with a sense of humour and a wealth of knowledge. A free glass tankard as a memento at the end of the visit was a pleasant surprise for our visitors – but the best bit? The beer to go in it – a tasting session. The shop appeared to do a fine trade too, but mostly cider or non-alcoholic for our visitors…. they don’t do that at the ‘Caves’ in France!

It was then a very short drive to West Bay, our lunch and exercise stop. Surprisingly, quite a few of our guests have heard of ‘Broadchurch’, but I don’t know if any of the landmarks were recognised – I think most of our minds were focused on lunch. Varied option , but quite a few decided on fish and chips, and what better place to have them than at the seaside!

Saturday saw the reception at the Town Hall with the Mayor, Steve Flaws, hosting a lunch provided by the Town Council. As always a chatty affair, but with plenty of lubrication, it was a time for catching up with friends, old and new. After an afternoon to recuperate, it was out to Calverleigh Village hall in the evening for a Burger and Beer night. The burgers went down a treat, and we actually ran out of beer, the cider running a close second favourite. We were treated to two entertainments during the evening. The first was a presentation of cheeses by Iain Thompson, with tastings. He waxed lyrical on our local produce, and possibly shocked some of our guests when he emphatically suggested white wine with cheese. Here, I have to say, they are VERY polite, our guests………. The second entertainment…….well what is there to say? The 2 John Smiths were their inimitable selves with a sketch which had us all in stitches…….(I KNEW it would involve women’s clothes)………But seriously, thanks to both Johns they do us proud with their uninhibited stage productions. Thanks must also go to Pat Smith, playing a supporting role, and Phil Stone for the building of the props. A very enjoyable, relaxed and friendly evening.

Sunday, a day of rest & leisure, to do as we liked, and from reports, a varied list of activities too, many featuring long lunches and drinks, quite in the French style really. The evening saw us gathering at Halberton Village Hall (parking NOT a problem!) for our Celebration Dinner. A refreshing change from the norm, in a village hall with a caterer Iain Thompson - with family waiting on. Iain’s theme for the 4 course dinner was ‘Devon’ featuring local produce including again a cheese presentation! A few minor hitches, but another enjoyable evening, our guests were most appreciative.

Monday a later start for the coach to Exeter, a buffet lunch at The White Hart before a Redcoat guided tour of Exeter, with 3 differing routes. The lunch was very good value, the staff were most attentive and helpful, and the ‘olde worlde’ charm did just that. The tours of Exeter were very well received, Exeter is a ‘ very lovely City’ so some visitors reported!. Doesn’t it go to show that fresh eyes look at things differently…………. Not only the surroundings, but also the happenings. There may have been a few ‘mumbles’ amongst us hosts, but our guests were more than pleased with their visit, and that’s what we should be thinking of, their pleasure, not our own. The most memorable moment of the visit for me was at the dinner when Patrick insisted on saying thank you to us all for the help we had given to enable him to make the visit. By raising a few pounds, we had made all the difference to one wonderful, and happy man. And I for one, am proud and pleased with that- that is Friendship, and Twinning.

Many thanks go to Pat Smith for all her hard work, and effort in making this visit such an enjoyable one, and of course everyone whose work went to ensure our guests went home wanting to come again.

THE FRENCH CONNECTION

(Wrington Twinning Association) The Redhillbillies at Villeneuve-lès-Béziers Summer came late to the South of France this year but right on cue for the Soirée Musicale in our twin village Villeneuve-lès-Bézers in the south of France - and the perfect setting for the headline performance by Tom Vowles and Jo Deane of the Wrington based group, the Redhillbillies on 22nd June. As the sun dropped behind the mediaeval buildings, the floodlights came up on the music stage set up in the central Place Michel Solans. In the warm dusk the festival started with ‘Le Coeur des Guitares’ – 21 acoustic guitarists providing a range of up-beat Spanish dance music – followed by various other musicians providing a remarkable range of music. Then Jo and Tom took the stage and, from the first number, were on top form, a mix of country rock and ballads. The square teemed with locals revelling in the warm summer night and, before long, was alive with impromptu line dancing, young people jiving, and an appreciative audience beating time and sipping drinks under the plane trees. As the local paper said the following day Tom and Jo ‘had shown the full range of their talent with the superb guitar and banjo playing’. Putting a play-list together earlier that day, Tom and Jo had sought a quiet rehearsal space under the impression that they would provide about 40 minutes of music. Such was the demand that they were still playing well after midnight. The evening had begun with aperitifs and an excellent seafood supper on the square in front of Les Enfants Terribles, a popular stop for Wrington visitors. Winding down after the event, those with energy remaining joined Tom and Jo at the excellent brasserie La Crémade beside the Canal de Midi for post-concert refreshments. A tremendous visit that crossed the generation gap. We hope there will be a repeat. Seaton’s Town Crier was heard in France

Seaton’s Town Crier, David Craner does have a voice which travels! On this occaision so too did David, when he joined Seaton Twinning Group on their visit to our twinned Town of Thury-Harcourt in Normandy. Both groups were treated to an amazing cry on Friday in French and English, when they assembled at the welcome meeting in the Town Hall of Thury-Harcourt. Pictured is David in full reglia along with the Mayor of Thury-Harcourt and the chairs of French and English Twinners Nathalie Anne and Sharon Bruce. The French hosts made Seaton’s Twinning party feel so welcome providing a mouth-watering array of authentic home cooked food.

After a good night’s sleep at the hosts homes our members were invited to a visit La Michaudiere, a typically Normandy Bocage farm with a large collection of horses including Bretons, Normands and Percherons. The animals were magnificent and the courage of their young riders was something to be marvelled at. The ground shook as these massive horses galloped past .The show was followed by a superb meal where everyone was able to sample some of the local speciality beverages. Not to be upstaged by the French cuisine, the humble Brussel Sprout was the subject of a spontaneous and very witty cry from our Town Crier during the meal.

The following day our host families treated their guests to experiences in the town of Thurly Harcourt and surrounding areas. A number of the group tried their hand at the fishing competition which was being run at the Lake Trapsy, which recently staged on an International Kayaking Polo Competition where 70,000 people visited during the week of the competition. First time twinner Vivien Rodger was delighted to land a sizeable Rainbow Trout, which she donated to the bbq.

The journey home provided the opportunity to visit Bayeaux where the group were free to look around the Cathedral, shops or view the famous Bayeux Tapestry. The journey would not be complete without a stop at a hypermarket where Twinners were able to purchase some gifts for home or stock up on supplies of the best French food and wine.

Seaton Twinning Association is always happy to welcome new members of all ages. The group usually visits France on alternate years and receives a return visit from our French partners in the intervening year. There is no requirement to be able to speak French, just a genuine desire to be part of a community group here and in France.

For more information please contact the Membership Secretary Avis Hilder by email [email protected] or visit http://www.seatondistricttwinning.blogspot.co.uk.

STOKEINTEIGNHEAD TWINNING ASSOCIATION From Lesley Stanley

Stokeinteignhead Twinners had a very successful visit to Trevieres, Thursday 28th April – Monday 2nd May. The group took the overnight ferry from Plymouth, followed by a leisurely coach journey to Trevieres in Normandy. Our hosts had organised a busy weekend, including a visit to the Palais de Benedictine in Fecamp, where they still distil the elixir, and the stunning coastal resort of Etretat. An emotional time was experienced by all at the planting of a wild cherry tree from the town’s people and the memorial rose shrub from Stokeinteignhead in memory of the late Mayor, Jean Paul Richard. Gifts were exchanged to commemorate our 40 years of twinning and the Trevieres choir lifted the atmosphere by singing a selection of French and English songs. There was talk of the choir visiting Stokeinteignhead. We had wonderful meals and the strong feeling of friendship was evident throughout. It is our turn next year, so preparations are already in the pipeline.

Below is an account of the visit published in Trevieres’ local press. TRANSLATION INTO ENGLISH The Twinning with Stokeinteignhead celebrates it’s 40th year.

The Officers and committee members of the twinning, planted a tree for the 40th year of exchange.

The members of the twinning committee received a delegation of 22 people this weekend. With their officers they celebrated the 40 years of exchange between Trevieres and Stokeinteignhead.

Sunday morning the anniversary ceremony was marked by a tree planted in front of the church, the English had also brought a rose in memory of Jean Pierre Richard.

“He liked to receive you,” said the mayoress, Mireille Dufour. She also greeted all the presidents, French and English who had driven the exchanges during 40 years.

Report DTC Skittles Competition.

Seven teams entered this year. With 2 cups to compete for, teams entered were:- Tiverton, Exeter Twinning Circle, Lapford, Crediton, Uffculme , Newton Abbot A&B. An excellent cold buffet was enjoyed then the serious business of playing skittles commenced. In the main cup Uffculme played Newton Abbot in the final which was won by Newton Abbot. In the “Losers” competition Lapford beat Exeter T.C. in the final. A draw was run by Pauline Knowles and 2 quizzes run by Josie Mardon . Other winners were:- Highest Score Ladies Val Brewer Crediton, Highest score Men Fred from Lapford and the wooden spoon for the lowest score went to Rob Stevens Newton Abbot after a play-off with Paul Evans Tiverton (on loan from Crediton). The afternoon was enjoyed by all and requests for it to be held again next year have been noted! Because there were fewer teams’ comments were made that making contact with other associations were easier. My thanks to the associations that entered a team and their players. Josie Mardon who ran the quiz. ( some of the answers were enlighting!) Pauline Knowles for running the draw and Peter Brewer for acting as our publicity officer. The Waie Inn for letting us use their 3 alleys and providing the buffet lunch. Last but not least my husband Edward for sorting out the play list. My grateful thanks to all of you. See you next year!! (Well maybe) I played this year AND tried to run the event but with hindsight that was not a good idea! Pat.

Upper Culm Twinning Association The day had finally arrived; May 26th after the worries of the fuel strikes in France, we were assured that our coach could easily cover the mileage to The Loire Valley and back on a full tank, phew! So no last minutes calls to cancel except a call from our very disappointed Chairman having to pull out at the last minute. 32 adults and 12 young people aged between 6 and 14 boarded the coach supplied by Redwoods Travel on Thursday afternoon to take the Plymouth to Roscoff night crossing, an extra 2 of our party took the harder option to travel and left the day before on 2 wheels, we drove through a thunderstorm, little did we know that this was just a taster of things to come! Everyone was safely on board settled for a relaxing evening in one way or another, we enjoyed an excellent meal in the A La Carte restaurant, others brought their own picnics, everyone had a good evening.

In Roscoff, the weather was a little damp but we had a good drive down to Rennes for lunch, on the way we witnessed a lot of blockaded petrol stations, how lucky we were to have our super duper coach. Rennes seemed unusually quiet so there was plenty of choice when it came to restaurants, which all provided a wonderful lunch menu, to walk this off we wondered around the city and came across several boarded up shop fronts, it was only that evening that we found out that there had been massive demonstrations and riots the day before, so glad we chose Friday to visit.

We arrived at St Herblon at 5pm, our reception this year was being held at a different venue, Le Salle de Prieure, there was some difficulty in finding it and after driving through some narrow streets with a coach that was 2 metres longer than normal Kelvin decided enough was enough, we needed help, thank goodness for mobiles, it wasn’t long before one of our hosts came to the rescue. Once at our destination we were met with the usual hugs and kisses, it really feels like you’re meeting up with old long lost friends, we arrived just in time to cheer in our 2 cyclists Andy and David or did we? I think we may have met them going in the opposite direction with a party of French cyclists, killing time maybe!! A delicious array of cakes and wine were devoured before we were taken to our host’s homes.

Saturday was a free day to be spent with the hosts, a variety of things were done, trips to Nantes, Le Puy du Fou, various Chateau’s, wine caves and markets, the weather was glorious 27º until late afternoon when thunder started rumbling around, a deluge followed but they were isolated and by the evening the bbq’s were lit, many families got together with friends making it an enjoyable night.

We had an early start on Sunday morning, we departed for our visit to Noyant La Gravoyere to visit ‘La mine Bleue’ this was interesting destination, hard hats were donned by us all and we then travelled 126 metres below ground level where it was a constant 13ºc, we were then taken in a tiny train to the inner depths of the mine to see the workings, the slate mine was closed in 1986. The rain was lashing down with no abatement in sight, the picnic at Park de St Blaise was quickly rearranged to an indoor venue but this didn’t dampen our spirits, we were met by our hosts with a picnic as only the French can do. As the rain continued it was decided to cancel our time in the Park, I’m sure it’s a beautiful place, maybe next time? This time was spent well with visits to extended family, supermarkets; we watched the robotic milking parlour at a friend’s farm and enjoyed tasting their home pressed apple juice.

The evening Dinner Dance was held at La Roche Blanche where we enjoyed a reception with an aperitif of sweet wine flowing from a fountain! And lots of delicious savouries, time was spent chatting to old and new Twinners, we then enjoyed a hog roast followed by cheeses and an exceptional strawberry gateaux. Gifts were exchanged between the committees and speeches made, well done Sally for stepping in at last minute and Brexit was only mentioned once (visit was pre vote) In between courses we were entertained with a disco and an ongoing game, I never knew Richard and Sarah were so competitive!! The rain continued, coming through the ceiling at one point, “non problem” just turn off the lights and find bucket and the fun goes on. The evening ended a little earlier than planned due to the horrific weather conditions and an early start in the morning.

Saying farewell to our hosts is always a sad occasion with many a tear in the eye but go we must so after the obligatory group photos we finally departed making our way back to Roscoff, time was limited but we managed a brief stop at an Hypermarket before boarding the ferry for our afternoon crossing.

We’d all had a great time in France; our families who were on their first visit to their twinning hosts enjoyed their time and are looking forward to welcoming them next year to their homes, some of us will be visiting our French friends during the coming year. Planning for the visit to the Upper Culm in May 2017 will soon begin.

Places to visit

To add to the list that can be found on our Website: devontwinningcircle.com Seaton Jurassic – Tells the history of the Jurassic Coast Garden linkAdmission strengthens Adults £8 – Childtwinning £5 Website: bond Seaton between Jurassic.org/ Scoriton -

BuckfastleighDartmouth Castle and (Goggle Fontaine - English- HeritageHenry Site) Admission Adults £6.10 Concessions £5.50

Scoriton and Buckfastleigh Twinning Association

During the latest twinning trip to Normandy members of the Scoriton and Buckfastleigh Twinning Association checked in on a nearby garden designed and built by Buckfastleigh resident John Goulden.

Anne Goulborn, president of the Scoriton and Buckfastleigh Association, said “It’s great to find something else that links our town and the South Hams area with Caen.

“The twinning visit overall was a great success and further strengthened the strong bonds we have forged over the last 30 years with our friends in Fontaine-Henry. It’s such an interesting and valuable experience to discover how much we have in common.”

John’s garden is within the Colline aux Oiseaux, a 17-hectare memorial peace park on the outskirts of Caen, Normandy. Twinners from Scoriton and Buckfastleigh have regularly enjoyed the park on visits organised by their twinning hosts from nearby Fontaine-Henry. But no one realised the South Hams contribution was the work of a Buckfastleigh resident.

“At the time I was the South Hams Parks Manager,” says John. “The Colline aux Oiseaux was built on a former Caen rubbish tip. Initially towns around France were asked to create peace gardens within the park, then the invitation was extended to towns abroad. There are gardens from as far afield as the USA, Würzburg in Germany and a joint garden created by Egypt and Israel. The South Hams was invited due to our role in the D- Day training at Slapton Sands.”

The task fell to John to manage the design and implementation in Caen. “It was the first time I’d been on a ferry with my car and had driven abroad which was a little daunting! I spoke no French and the five gardeners assigned to me in Caen spoke no English. But we muddled along surprisingly well.” The garden includes a mosaic representing a Celtic knot of friendship.

The grand opening was in 1994 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of D-Day. “There were dignitaries representing the various towns,” explains John. “It was quite an event, very well attended, culminating in a release of doves. All in all it was a fantastic experience.”

John has not been back to the garden since so was curious to find out what it looked like today. While visiting Fontaine-Henry, Anne and Martyn paid another visit to the Colline aux Oiseaux to take some photos

John was delighted to see the garden in pristine condition, beautifully maintained by the French in the intervening 22 years.

John Goulden today Uffculme Twinning Association

From: Jim Clancy

Four days of French cuisine, hospitality and new and renewed friendships were enjoyed by Uffculme Twinning Association recently. Uffculme’s Twinning links with the Normandy village of Caumont- l'Eventé go from strength to strength and have existed for 39 years now. This year it was the Mid Devon village’s turn to visit their counterparts in France. Here they were treated to trips to St Malo, Abbaye d’Hambye, Granville, Saint Vaast la Hougue and Barfleur.

Twinning association treasurer Jim Clancy said, “Our French hosts have treated us extremely well this year and the weather couldn’t have been better, with full blue skies everyday! All 22 English passengers had a great time and as usual the French food and wine were top notch.

Speeches were made and the English thanked the French for organising such a wonderful time. Dates were also discussed for the visit of the French to Uffculme next year, which will be an extra special occasion marking the 40th anniversary of twinning links between the two villages.

During the latest twinning trip to Normandy members of the Scoriton and Buckfastleigh Twinning Association checked in on a nearby garden designed and built by Buckfastleigh resident John Goulden.

Anne Goulborn, president of the Scoriton and Buckfastleigh Association, said “It’s great to find something else that links our town and the South Hams area with Caen.

It came up in conversation at a quiz evening at Buckfastleigh’s Kings Arms pub. Twinners Anne Goulborn and Martyn Welfare were discussing the group’s upcoming visit to Normandy. When they mentioned the Colline aux Oiseaux, John Goulden enlightened them. “At the time I was the South Hams Parks Manager,” says John. “The Colline aux Oiseaux was built on a former Caen rubbish tip. Initially towns around France were asked to create peace gardens within the park, then the invitation was extended to towns abroad. There are gardens from as far afield as the USA, Würzburg in Germany and a joint garden created by Egypt and Israel. The South Hams was invited due to our role in the D-Day training at Slapton Sands.”

John was delighted to see the garden in pristine condition, beautifully maintained by the French in the intervening 22 years.

Food for thought – the next generation

Like many Twinning Associations Abbotskerswell’s members are getting no younger and we have been seeking to address how we reach out to younger generations. 18 months persevering work has resulted in a small group of youngsters from our village primary school spending 5 days in France at the end of June with the promise of a return in 2017. How was this achieved? In September 2014 under a relatively new Head, Tim Hughes, French was introduced into the curriculum. As Twinners we took the opportunity to offer to help and initially two or three members went in to meet classes. We talked about the village’s links with our twinned villages Le Pre D’Auge and Les Monceaux near Lisieux and used some simple French phrases in conversation. The children in the meantime had established a link with the primary school in France and exchanged greetings through emails and later Skype. The following term we agreed to work with the school on a project within the village, a Saturday lunch time French Café organised by Twinners, but with the children acting as waiters and waitresses. Over a few weeks a small group of members ran an after school club where we prepared the children for the café, thinking about menus after sampling some of the possible foods we could offer,decoration and publicity while also teaching the children some simple words and phrases they could use in their roles. We then invited parents and villagers to attend and were delighted to have just over 100 attend so we had families waiting to be shown to their tables.

Having forged a strong link with the school we then began talking with the Head about the possibility of developing the messaging between the schools to a trip to France. He was enthusiastic. So when Abbotskerswell Twinning went on their exchange in May 2015 I arranged to visit the French school with my wife taking some written samples of work and greetings from our village school. My counter part in Le Pre D’Auge, Murielle Hauvel, had prepared the way and we were welcomed warmly. I was able to speak to the children and was delighted to be able to bring back from them messages for the Abbotskerswell children. I also had a lengthy meeting with Murielle where we discussed the possibility of an exchange in 2016 and the various difficulties that had to be overcome, but agreed we were determined to do all we could to ensure our ambitions came to fruition.

By September our Head and Murielle had planned a week’s programme in Normandy which is a rich haven for interesting and educational experiences for the two cultures. Accommodation was found in a boarding school where one of our French Twinners works and the idea was sold to the parents. I attended this meeting to give the Head our support and eight youngsters in Years 4-6 (our top class of three in the school) committed to the project. The school started an after school French class from Christmas run by a French speaking parent. As Twinners we always ensured that at least one of our members also attended as the youngsters (and the Head on occasions too!) were taught some basic French to help them cope when they travelled to France. When our visitors came to Abbotskerswell in May of this year the whole group were taken to the village school. Half were given a tour of the school by the Head meeting each class while the other half were served refreshments by the children going to France. The groups then swapped. This was a revelation as the different generations overcame any shyness and communicated enthusiastically and confidently. It was an important occasion for another reason because in France the children spent one evening with families having a typical French meal and on another occasion the Le Pre D’Auge Twinners organised a crepe party for the two groups of children French and English. Meeting prior to the visit broke the ice on both sides.

At the end of June the Head, a Teaching and Learning Assistant and a parent plus 8 youngsters went by minibus to France and had a fantastic week exploring places linked with William the Conqueror, World War II sites, a cheese factory and French shops as well as some shared lesson time and experiences in school. On return a follow up meeting was held when the parents and children were shown photos of the trip by the head which I also attended. Potential parents for the next trip were also invited and the exciting news is that a date has been put in the diary for a group of French children to come to Devon in July 2017.

This is an exciting time and the culmination of a lot of diligent work. Personal contacts with our village school Head and persistent enthusiasm for the project from a few dedicated people on both sides of the Twinning have sustained interest to the point where our ambitions have been fulfilled. We are determined to maintain the links we have made with the younger generations and have recently run our own crepe stall at the PTA Summer Fete. In addition we have organised a family fun day Village Walking Treasure Hunt followed by a barbecue. At both events we have taken details of potential new members. The challenge now is for us to build on this start and we are thinking in terms of running a Saturday morning French Breakfast event for families involving the next group of school youngsters as we did with the French Café.

2016-2017 is full of promise with the potential of hosting a group of French children in the village next summer. From there we hope the exchange will parallel our own exchanges, one year the English visiting France and the next the French visiting England. However we cannot rest on our laurels and the hard work must continue to make sure that what has been started becomes a building block for the next generation of Twinners. For the moment though we can bask temporarily in having achieved something special in making the dream of a few people become a reality and enabling the children from Abbotskerswell to have an experience they will never forget.

Andrew Rose Chairman Abbotskerswell Twinning Association

Chard Helmstedt Twinning Society Exchange Visit June 2016

On 14th June, 27 members of the society travelled to Helmstedt for the biennial exchange visit. We enjoyed a pleasant overnight stop in Bruges, where the warm evening sun tempted many out for a stroll and a beer. After a long second day on the road, we arrived at Helmstedt to a warm welcome by our host families.

During our 4 day visit we enjoyed civic, cultural and social events. These included a formal civic reception at the historic town hall; an informative and atmospheric guided tour of the former GDR frontier checkpoint Alpha on the motorway to Berlin and a trip to the Harz Mountains with an ascent of the “Brocken” summit in an historic steam train. There were opportunities too for informal outings with our hosts, who were keen to show us some of the history, culture and beauty of the surrounding area.

On the social side, there was an international twinning association party, with dancing to a lively local rock band and the farewell BBQ at the club house of the Helmstedt Allotment Association, surrounded by beautifully kept colourful gardens.

All the participants were overwhelmed by the generous hospitality of our hosts. We look forward to hosting a return visit from Helmstedt to Chard in 2017.

New members are always welcome. For details please see our website, 40 Years Twinning Bradninch & Landunvez in Brittany

The twinning visit this year was to celebrate our twinning of 40 years 1976 to 2016. These years have been absolutely wonderful, as over those years we have become more than just friends but like extended families. Some twinners have Travelled together on holidays to Ireland, Canada, all over France and England even to each other’s family weddings and christenings. We may have left the EU but we are still friends and will continue to be so. I would like to mention that this friendship is available to all the people of Bradninch and its surrounding areas. We are a completely self sufficient group who organise our own fund raising, which includes a monthly social evening and various other activities throughout the year.

Our French friends arrived at Plymouth ferry port at 6-30am on Thursday 14th July (a very early start for some of the committee who travelled down to meet them). They arrived Bradninch at 8-30am to be met by the family groups and for a quiet start to the day. In the late afternoon a BBQ was held at Pearl & Malcolm’s home with a total of 58 attending, it was late when the families took our French friends home. Friday 16th July and a day out with the families, suggested places of interest were The Craft show by Exeter Cathedral, The Quay and The Donkey Sanctuary. In the evening we all went to Padbrook Park for a three course Carvery meal and wine. Before our meal we held a minute silence to remember the people who were killed and injured in the Nice attack. Saturday 16th July we had a coach take us to Bishops Lydeard where we hired a carriage on the steam train to Minehead. We continued with the coach on to Lynmouth for lunch and a look round then back to Bradninch via Simonsbath and Wheddon Cross. We held a gathering of everyone at the Guildhall in Bradninch where our French friends came in 1970s dress. (See photograph) A great time was had by all. Sunday 17th July sadly we return to Plymouth for the 8am ferry , so we say goodbye to our friends and look forward to our visit to Landunvez next year.

Russian Guest’s Report on Yaroslavl Exeter Friendship Society Twinning Visit to Exeter - July 2016

The traditional visit of Yaroslavl Delegation has been taking place since 10th to 21 of July, 2016.

I was pretty lucky to take part in it. Our family is quite a young member of Yaroslavl Exeter Friendship Society. It wasn’t our first visit to Great Britain, but the first time we’ve been in Exeter and have been hosted by an English family.

It was a very interesting experience – to learn more about the people and the country. When you travel as a tourist you won’t have a chance to know a lot from the inside.

First of all you'll never be met at the airport by a friend. Thanks so much Joyce Burgess for meeting us at the Heathrow Airport and of course - to Ron Crabb for taking us there back from Exeter.

We've been to the places you'd never reach as a visitor. It could be only possible when you’re a friend. It was really a great pleasure to meet the Lord Mayor of Exeter and to take part in the annual Lammas Parade, headed (what a surprise for us) by Ron Crabb. We had lovely tours to Teignmouth (great thanks to Keith Seabrook; by the way, our lunch at St Michael Church was unforgettable as your perfect Russian speech) and Plymouth (many thanks to Clare Meiklejohn – you are really brave to fix it all). We also had there a pleasant Devon tea party and met Marilyn Goldsbrough, Plymouth Twinning Head.

It was not only a pleasure but had great value - that is what I really think about very interesting excursions to Exeter Reclamation Facility and Fire and Rescue Station of Devon. Due to Elena Coles’ detailed translation we understood much more about great efforts made by Exeter people to keep the City clean and safe.

Fantastic view of the City could be only seen from the North Tower of the Cathedral on the special tour guided by Julia. Bob Bradshaw, Clare Meiklejohn and Piter Barker are really heroes – they came with us to one-day trip to London. It was extremely exciting to visit the Capital.

Our Farewell Party was full of surprises for everyone. All of you were so talented (great play «Dama zdavala v bagazh» directed by Elena Coles!), intelligent (fantastic quiz by Victoria Furtado!), sincere and socialable. I have really started to understand English people much better – and as for me we didn't have a lot of differences at all.

I can only imagine how difficult it was to organize this entire programme. How many people were involved into the way it happened! But due to Peter Barker, the head of Exeter Yaroslavl Twinning Association, everything went great. Our delegation is very grateful to all of you, our dearest friends from EYTA, and we do appreciate all the things you did for us during our staying.

Special thanks and warmest wishes to our host families, who made this visit so special and provided us with care and attention. My husband and I wanted to thank Paul and Araceli Vass – you are really great hosts, very nice people and now our twinning friends. And traditionally we will be very happy to host you here in Yaroslavl!

Bideford-Landivisiau Twinning Association

40th Anniversary

1976-2016

The weekend began on Saturday 27th August when our French friends arrived on the Pill at 1-30am having travelled across from Roscoff on the afternoon ferry. All host families duly greeted their guests and made their way home.

A civic reception took place in the Pannier Market at 10-30am, the Town Band entertained us, then the Mayoral party arrived being escorted by the Mace bearer/Town Crier, a French Musketeer and British Rifleman in period costume complete with fire-arms. After several speeches of welcome by our mayor Mr Howell and their mayor Madame Claisse they re-signed the charter, and Mr Clifford Coates was greeted as one of the original signatories and given a commemorative medal from Landivisiau. Drinks and nibbles were served before we all made our way to the Durrant Hotel where lunch was to be served. The mayoral party travelled in a vintage coach which was very eye catching.The presentation of their gift took place after the meal and this was a large mounted photograph of the three mayors who were present at the original signing of the Treaty of Friendship, Cllr and Mrs Clifford Coates of Bideford, M. and Mme Yves Queguiner of Landivisiau and Herr and Frau Gerhard Harke the Burgermeister from Bad Soden Allendorf representing the German town that is twinned with Landivisiau. The rest of the day was spent with families.

Sunday morning a church service was held in the parish church before we all assembled in Victoria Park for a communal picnic. The day had started out wet but by lunchtime we were sitting in glorious sunshine. The town Regatta was taking place and several walked to the riverside to watch the rowing. In the evening we once again met in the Pannier Market, this time for a Barn dance accompanied by ’ Mularkey’, and supper was a hog roast with rolls and salad, washed down with real Devon ale. During the evening our veteran member Mr Stewart Philp was presented with a celebratory plaque depicting the town crests of Landivisiau and Bideford. Monday was spent with families, some going to the Park to see the gathering of about 200 Minis, and to listen to the Bideford Youth Pipe band. Several families met up at lunchtime, others entertained at home, and we all met again at Woolsery Village Hall for a Devon Cream Tea and cakes prior to the coaches arriving to take our visitors to Plymouth for the overnight ferry. A vigorous rendition of Auld Lang Syne was sung and then onto the coaches and away, promising to meet again in Landivisiau next May and celebrate their 40th Anniversary.

This weekend we have renewed old friendships and made new ones, and we have recognised and celebrated our oldest member Stewart Philp and our surviving mayor Clifford Coates who was able to be present to celebrate our anniversary.

Jen Sargent, 03/09/16

I hope you have From the Newsletter Editor: Thank you to those that responded to my request and have sent articles in. I hope you have enjoyed reading this Newsletter. Please keep the articles coming. Ideas being shared, how you have entertained your twinning guests, raised funds etc.and remember you will be entered into the Monica Sanders Competition and could win £50 + another £50 if judged the overall winner of the year.

Please send articles, reports, photographs by Email to:[email protected] by post to Mrs J.Aplin, 13 Crowden Crescent, Tiverton, Devon. EX16 4ET

Devon Twinning Circle Officers and Committee Addresses

Chairman Mr. Dennis Knowles, 43, Greenway Gardens, Tiverton, EX 16 5JL 01884254775. [email protected] Vice Chairman . Mrs. Pat Sherwood Imm.past chairman .Mrs Josie Mardon, Heimat, 35, Woodwater Lane, Exeter, EX2 5JY, Tel: 01392 253469 [email protected] Secretary Mrs Pat Sherwood, Littleover Dean Street, Crediton, EX17 3EN 01363 772103 [email protected] Treasurer Mr. James Stewart, St. Mary’s, Forches Cross, Bovey Road, Newton Abbot TQ12 6PU 01626 361808 [email protected] Insurance officer. Mrs. Pauline Knowles, 43, Greenway Gardens, Tiverton, EX16 5JL 01884 254775 [email protected] Newsletter Editor Mrs. Jean Aplin, 13, Crowden Crescent, Tiverton, Devon. EX16 4ET 01884 254260 [email protected] Committee Members Mr Philip Worsfold, 8B, Whitnage Road, Sampford Peverell, Tiverton EX16 7BU 01884 821805. [email protected] Mr. Maurice Mardon, Heimat, 35, Woodwater Lane, Exeter, EX2 5JY 01392 253469 [email protected] Rob Hooper, County Hall, Exeter 01392 382300 [email protected] Mr. Michael Mansfield, 16, Truro Close, Burnham on Sea, Somerset, TA8 3JE. 01278 792570 Mr.Bob Bradshaw, The Old Post Office, West Hill,Ottery St. Mary, Devon, EX11 1TR 01404 812402 [email protected] Mr. S. Philp, Highlea, First Raleigh, Bideford, EX39 3NJ. 01237 473624. [email protected]