A delegation from Warminster has crossed the Channel to visit its twin town of Flers in Normandy, celebrating more than five decades of friendship between the two communities.
Warminster has been twinned with Flers since 1973, with annual visits alternating between the two towns. Over the past 52 years, strong bonds have been formed between host families and communities.
Last month, 26 residents, including former mayor Cllr Stacie Allensby and her family, made the journey to Normandy for the 52nd official twinning meeting. It was an early 4am start for the group as they raced to catch the 8.30am ferry to Ouistreham.
Derek Severn, who was on the trip with his wife Maxine, said, “Before meeting up with our hosts, we took an excursion to Bénouville to visit Pegasus Bridge, the site of one of the major actions of the Second World War. We reflected on the life-changing events of 1944, before peace was eventually secured the following year.
“On reaching Flers, we met up with the French families who were to care for us during our time there and headed to the Town Hall, where a reception was held in the Hall d’Honneur, with speeches and gifts to get the activities underway.
“A group photo was then taken on the steps of the building. On Saturday morning, we headed over to the Pont de Vère Memorial, where speeches were delivered and flowers laid to commemorate the British soldiers of the 11th Armoured Division who gave their lives in the 1944 battle to liberate the town.”
The national anthems of both the United Kingdom and France were then played to round off proceedings.
After this, the twinning group visited the Blackwater Museum in Berjou, then enjoyed a performance by a 14-piece jazz band, as music continued late into the night.
Derek added, “After spending Sunday morning with our French families, we travelled the short distance to picturesque La Carneille to enjoy some local crafts, which were taking place in various locations around the village. There was also a treasure hunt of sorts, which saw a number of our party join in – and even provide a winner – so well done, Norma.
“Sadly, Monday morning came around and we had to reluctantly say goodbye to our French friends for another year. Planning will now start in earnest so that we can lay on a similar welcome for them in 2026.”
Cllr Stacie Allensby said the jazz evening was her favourite part of the twinning trip. She said, “We danced until about 1am. It was a fantastic trip – so well organised. We all had a fantastic time.”
To find out more about the twinning group, email warminsterandflers@gmail.com
