Winterton Twinning Association

Twinning was set up after the second world war when the European nations involved decided they must ensure it would never happen again. They felt that if we met on a social basis, staying in each others homes, we would gain a greater understanding of each other’s cultures, education, history and local government etc. As the bonds between the two communities and friendships have grown we realise our lifestyles may differ in some ways, but in others. they are much alike.

When was the Twinning Association formed?

We were formed in 1992 with the aim of meeting our French friends each year either in Winterton or Saffre. So far we have achieved this save for the year of the foot and mouth outbreak when the French thought moving around the UK could be difficult. They came the following year and the cycle is unbroken.

How is Twinning organised?

Each group has a president, who convenes meetings throughout the year. Gail Summerfield on the left of the picture is president in Winterton. We prefer to use the working title of chairman. The Winterton group meets about once a month. In the year when we are hosting we plan events and begin the task of allocating accommodation.  In recent years French parties have numbered almost 40 and we sometimes have to ask friends to help out with accommodation. French parents see it as an opportunity for their children to improve their English, which they regard as an important life skill in this modern world. We have asked French president to limit the size of her party to about 27.

The French president is Martine Maisonneuve. She has had this role slightly longer than Gail.and is passionate about Twinning and its ideals. In the year when it is our turn to visit we use some of our time at meetings apart from ascertaining who will be in the party and recruiting new members to coming up with ideas for places to visit and things to do when we host.. We like to have a fun evening at the end of the visit. On the last night in Winterton in 2018 we were frog racing. The ultimate champion was Joel Bihan who was presented with a large chocolate cup accompanied by singing le marseillaise. Our French friends are not offended to be referred to as “frogs” and have been known to address us as Les Roast Beefs.

The Twinning Charter

Although the two twinning associations are voluntary groups, there are formal civic links between our two communities. The charter was signed in Winterton 25 years ago by the then mayors Jean Dupas and Billy Turquoise. In 2017 Winterton’s mayor Paul McCartan was unable to come with us on the coach because of business commitments and so he flew out for the weekend. This was his first meeting with Saffre mayor Jocelyn Poulin. Lucinda Hopkins (bottom right) was interpreting. Local government systems in the two countries are very different. Jocelyn’s period in office is 6 years and she is paid for her duties. In France central government devolves a considerable amount of money to local communities and their councils have greater control of their finances.

How do we travel?

Both Twinning Associations prefer to travel by coach and ferry. We think it keeps the parties together. We aim to take the equivalent of 28 adults so there is plenty of space and leg room. In France it is possible for our hosts to join us on trips. When necessary a few hosts use their cars. The coach companies have drivers experienced in continental travel, they become part of the holiday and reside with hosts..

Why is Twinning so special?

It is not like a holiday spent in hotels. Participants staying a French or English home learn more about the customs and culture of the country they are visiting. Twinners are always very welcoming and hospitable and language is not a barrier to communication. Strong and lasting friendships have been established over the years. Both associations are keen to involve as many your people as possible.

How are visits structured?

Visits are relatively short – 7 nights and 5 full days.  Each association organises a few outings for the whole group. In between visits time is set aside to be with hosts, who plan activities. New twinners do not feel isolated because hosts often arrange to socialise with other groups. Sometimes one gets to meet friends and other family members. It is worth stressing many twinners are single  people and the bonus is there is no single supplement to pay.