by Lorraine Gibson

A Champagne lunch, a history tour and a trip to Beaulieu were part of the activities Ringwood Twinning Association arranged for its visitors from the French town of Pont Audemer in Normandy.

During their three-day visit, the French guests stayed in Ringwood association members’ homes and were taken on a tour of historic Ringwood by Ringwood Society, followed by a Champagne – but, of course – lunch in the Unity Hall, attended by both mayors, and sponsored by Ringwood Town Council.

On their penultimate day, members of both associations were taken to Beaulieu motor museum for the day and had a picnic lunch.

‘Farewells’ and and ‘mercis’ were exchanged over a coffee at Café Velo before the French guests bade their twins a final ‘adieu’.

Summing up the experience, Breece, one of the French group’s leaders, said: “We have been to Ringwood in the past, but this time we have found a great welcome and warm hospitality from Ringwood Twinning Members – not to mention a lot of fun.”

Ringwood Twinning offers many social functions to its members.

For info about membership, call June on 07779 997879.