1:31pm Tuesday 6th October 2009
By Alexandra Barham
MORE than 30 ambassadors from Harpenden have returned from a visit to twin town Cosne-cours-sur-Loire in France.
Members of the Friends in Cosne in Harpenden, led by Harpenden Mayor councillor Rosemary Farmer, enjoyed a bi-annual trip to strengthen relationships between the two towns, which forged links in 1982.
The group were welcomed to Cosne - a wine-making region situated on the River Loire about 115 miles south of Paris - by the town's Mayor, Alain Dherbier, at the town hall where Councillor Farmer addressed the group in French.
Secretary of the twinning association Elizabeth Briggs, who organised the trip, said: "It was fabulous to see our French partners again. We have been visiting each other since 1982, and there are many long lasting friendships although numerous new friendships have been formed on this trip.
"Staying in a family’s home is a fantastic way to find out so much more about the French way of life, rather than a weekend away visiting a town."
During their stay, from Friday, September 25, until Monday, September 28, they visited several attractions including the town of Montargis, which is described as a mini Venice, Château Chamerolles and the town's weekly market.
Councillor Farmer added: "The hospitality shown by our French partners has been incredible throughout this trip.
"This trip has demonstrated the important role the friendships groups play in maintaining and strengthening the link with our twin towns."
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