13-05-2025
Fordingbridge Twinning Association welcomes guests from France
The Fordingbridge Twinning Association hosted more than 40 visitors from Vimoutiers, Normandy, for a packed weekend of events.
Arriving on Thursday, May 8, the French guests were welcomed with a civic reception, featuring speeches from the Mayor of Fordingbridge, Councillor Pete White and the twinning association leaders.
They were treated to handbell ringing, a beacon lighting and a tribute of remembrance by the town crier.
The Hyde Band concluded with the national anthems.
The following day, the visitors enjoyed a guided tour of Breamore House, its museum, bluebell woods, and the renowned "miz-maze."
The day ended with a ceilidh featuring local band Murphy's Lore.
Everyone, including the French guests, joined in with the dancing.
The VE Day festivities, organised by Fordingbridge Town Council and supported by local groups such as Avon Valley Shed and Fordingbridge Rotary, came to a close on Saturday, May 10, with a Picnic in the Park.
READ MORE:Salisbury reflects on VE Day in Guildhall Square ceremony
Fordingbridge welcomes French visitors for sun-soaked twinning weekend (Image: Supplied) The day began with a guided walk in the New Forest, followed by a fish and chips lunch.
The afternoon was filled with music, stalls and various entertainments.
The evening ended with a dinner accompanied by local dance music.
The French visitors were seen off on Sunday morning with a brunch, music courtesy of New Forest Rhythmix, before catching their coach home via the Portsmouth Ferry.
The weekend's sunny weather was an unexpected delight, with many returning to France sporting suntans.
The next twinning event will be from Friday, October 17 to Sunday, October 19, when the Fordingbridge residents head to the "Foire de la Pomme" in Vimoutiers.
Anyone interested in joining the twinning association or other local groups such as Avon Valley Shed or Fordingbridge Rotary can contact Derek Ayling for more information.
The Fordingbridge Twinning Association said: "The French guests enjoyed these formal events and were pleased to join in.
"Everyone joined in with the dancing, along with much laughter.
"The weather was fantastic over the whole four-day visit, which caused much amusement with people returning to France with suntans.
"They don't usually expect that when they visit the UK."
