A weekend to remember

The Friends of Nevers celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the twinning with Nevers in June. The long weekend was packed full of activities for the 20 visitors from Nevers.

The weekend started with a reception at the civic centre. This included a speech by our chairperson Andrea Berry who looked back at the different activities and changes that have taken place (including of course the challenges of Brexit and Covid). Andrea had the distinction of being the first chairperson of the Friends of nevers, which gave her a unique perspective. Claudine Boussard, the president of the Amicale replied on behalf of the Nevers visitors.

The council had the flags of the two countries on display along with the gifts recieved over the years. There was also a display of photographs and newspaper cuttings to remind us of previous events.

In the evening we also had a Barn dance with a fish and chip supper. The Brookfield Band and caller gave us a wonderful evening to remember with everyone joining in the dancing.

On the Saturday our visitors had the opportunity to find out more about the history of St. Albans with a tour of the women connected to St. Albans Abbey. In the afternoon there was a very entertaining tour of the Roman Museum and St. Michaels church and village given by John Morewood.

Sunday morning saw 45 of us gathering in St Albans bright and early for our day in Oxford. This included the opportunity for a brief look at the Ashmolean Museum before starting on a tour of the Oxford colleges – there was a choice of a French or English tour. This culminated in the Botanical gardens where we had had a picnic lunch. During the afternoon some people attempted to punt on the river others prefered to continue to absorb the sights of Oxford.

After a busy day we ended with a relaxing drink and meal at the Trout inn, before the coach ride home.