The recent annual Family Twinning Exchange between Midsomer Norton and Ambarès et Lagrave in France showed that despite all the issues with Brexit, the links between people of the two towns are if anything stronger, with a determination to remain firm friends.

The visit of twenty local people to Ambarès et Lagrave in South West France began with a visit to a local vineyard to see how the owner used only organic methods to grow his vines which included a wine tasting. This was followed by a visit to the town sports field for a picnic lunch after which mixed French and English teams spent the afternoon playing boules.

Friday saw the group visit Bordeaux University where, following a talk, the group were treated to a viewing of street art.

On the Saturday, there was an unveiling of a new telephone box, to replace the original one gifted many years ago but which had been destroyed by fire. The phone box now reinstated stands proudly in front of the French Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) in the centre of the town as a symbol of the twinning links between Midsomer Norton and Ambarès et Lagrave. There followed the official Civic Welcome from the

Ambarès Mayor, who presented Midsomer Norton’s Mayor, Cllr Michael Evans and Deputy Mayor Steve Plumley with three paintings which, when put together showed a map of old Ambarès. Midsomer Norton’s Mayor in turn presented Ambarès et Lagrave with an ornamental statue of a miner, made of coal and representing the mining history of Midsomer Norton.

“Twinning is a great way for people of all ages to form links with other countries and exchange ideas and new ways of thinking. However, if such cultural exchanges are to continue into the future we need to re-double efforts to open up the benefits of twinning for more people to enjoy – particularly the young and members of our many community groups”, said Michael Evans, Mayor of Midsomer Norton.

Anyone interested in finding out more about Twinning can contact the Town Council on: 01761 418701.