Dawlish Twinning Association hosted residents from Carhaix-Plouguer, Dawlish's twin town in Britanny, for the first time since the pandemic last weekend.

The three-day visit was formally launched at the Manor House on Saturday (3 June) when the Mayor, Rosie Dawson, welcomed the visitors and presented them with a magnificent coronation flag.

Civic reception group photo (Dawlish Twinning Association)

Guests were then treated to a video presentation by children from Westcliff Primary Academy and a lively performance in French and English by Year 8 students of Dawlish College before tucking into a sumptuous buffet prepared by Dawlish WI.

The rest of their stay was spent relaxing with their host families and engaging in whole-group activities. The latter included an evening meal at Mount Pleasant Inn in Dawlish Warren and a day outing to Coleton Fishacre and Dartmouth.

Coffee time at Coleton Fishacre (Dawlish Twinning Association)

"We've had lots fun," said DTA chair, Dill Cameron. "Our Carhaix friends went out of their way to entertain us when we visited them this time last year and we were determined to repay them in kind."

Founded in 1977, the aim of the twinning is to promote friendship between the two communities and give people the opportunity to sample each other's way of life and culture. New members of all ages are very welcome.

Contact Alison Thomas to find out more: [email protected]; 07947 060130.