WILLINGHAM TWINNING ASSOCIATION

Willingham by Stow has taken the opportunity to broaden its cultural, linguistic and educational assets by forming a twinning link with the village of Moyenneville in France. Chosen for its many similarities which include its population and rural situation the link has slowly developed since its inauguration in 2000.

The idea of hosting a French family or staying in the home of someone you have never met before can be daunting, but those who have taken part have invariably enjoyed the experience and gained a mutual understanding of what twinning is all about.

Last year over the weekend of 6-9th July we hosted 50 visitors from Moyenneville with families around the village. A very enjoyable experience was had by all. The weekend welcome meeting on this occasion was held within the village church. Our visitors had the opportunity to see our bell ringers at first hand whilst enjoying a glass of champagne. Celebrations continued with a BBQ and games on the school field. The Sunday saw us visiting Waltham Mill and sampling the British traditional fish and chips at Cleethorpes.

This year it was our turn to visit the French. A group of 46 including 17 children and teenagers travelled by coach for the weekend of 4-7th April.
It turned out to be a showery and cool spring weekend but nothing daunted our spirits and enthusiasm. The hospitality was excellent. Several new families took part in the trip and came back having made new friendships and holding wonderful memories.

After the first evening of settling in, the programme of events included on the Saturday, a walking tour of the village highlights, an afternoon of local sports and an evening of entertainment. This was complimented with wonderful meals, alfresco and BBQ style. On the Sunday many of the groups youngsters visited “grimp a l’arb” and experienced tree climbing! French style. Visits also were made to discover the delights of the village of Pierrefonds and to the history shown at the wagon de l’armistice. Following another wonderful meal in the evening the group returned home on Monday.

We hope to encourage new people from the community to join us and experience first hand, the fundamentals of twinning. If you would like to consider hosting or taking part in the future we will be pleased to hear from you.

The AGM of the Association will be held on September 15th in the village hall.