Banbridge is set to roll out the red carpet for a French delegation to celebrate the 30th anniversary of one of the borough’s longest and strongest international linkages.
It’s happening on Thursday, May 9, to celebrate the link between Banbridge and the French town of Ruelle-sur-Touvre.
The Lord Mayor of ABC, Alderman Margaret Tinsley will welcome the distinguished guests from Ruelle-sur-Touvre to partake in a day long celebration marking this landmark event.
This will include a Civic Reception, a tour of the town including the unveiling of a special 30th Anniversary bench in Solitude Park, round table discussions and presentations from officials of both towns.
The day will culminate with a wonderful celebratory event in the Southern Regional College Banbridge campus featuring a host of cultural music, song and dance.
Since the signing of the first Town Twinning Charter in May 1994, the link between the two towns has stood the test of time thanks to the commitment of Banbridge Twinning Association and the local community who have welcomed their French friends into their homes down through the years.
Many lifelong friendships have been forged, cultures shared and everlasting memories made through exchange trips organised for both the younger and older generation – providing mutually beneficial opportunities to learn about each other’s culture, language and way of life.
Speaking ahead of the historic anniversary, the Lord Mayor said: “I am delighted to welcome our French friends from Ruelle-sur-Touvre to celebrate our continued twinning and commemorate the bond our two communities fondly share.
“I would also like to thank the Banbridge Twinning Association for their enduring commitment over the past three decades in ensuring the friendship between our two towns continues to grow and develop.”
To mark the occasion, members of the local Banbridge community are invited to help honour this wonderful achievement and enjoy the special celebratory event at the Southern Regional College Banbridge campus on Thursday, May 9 from 7pm to 9pm which will highlight the lasting legacy of the twinning and present a thoroughly exciting showcase of local cultural entertainment.
You can book your place here. Tickets are free but numbers are limited.
