THE ‘twinning’ of Melksham with Avon in France is to come to an end after 38 years, due to the relationship being ‘no longer viable’.
Melksham and Avon councils have been ‘twinned’ for 38 years and representatives from both locations have taken it in turns each year to visit each other.
Melksham will welcome visitors from Avon this week to celebrate the history of the ‘twinning’ and to say goodbye.
Carole Mitchell from Melksham Twinning Association said, “This weekend the Avon Twinning Association and the Melksham Twinning Association celebrate their 38 years of visits, with a final hosting in Melksham as the members say a fond farewell.
“At the last AGM it was decided that the association was no longer viable. It was a very difficult decision to take, but with happy memories and many enduring family friendships, these strong ties will doubtless continue in individual and different ways.
“The French visitors will arrive this week and a formal reception will be held this Friday to celebrate their special visit. The Mayor, cllr Adrienne Westbrook, will welcome Madame Michele Hibon, President of the Avon association together with Madame Beatrice Rucheton, who for many years represented Avon Town Council, and visitors and hosts.
“On Saturday evening, a nostalgic farewell dinner will be held at Cleeve House as members past and present will be there to thank our French friends for all those years of entente cordiale.”
