FAMILIES from Lydney’s twin town in Normandy recently visited the Forest for their annual exchange visit and were at pains to stress the importance of maintaining the ‘French connection’ after Brexit.

Following their journey from Portsmouth, the visitors from Brehal Twinning Association were treated to an ‘English tea’ on arrival, before settling in with their local host families.

A full day of visits to sights around the Forest was then followed by a formal reception and folk dancing at Yorkley Village Hall.

Lydney Town Council continues to support the association, and the members were delighted that the Mayor, Bob Berryman, was able to attend and formally welcome the French guests.

The Brehal Association’s president, Gerard Leconte, said, “At this time of uncertainty over the future of the UK relationship with Europe, it is so important that the twinning must continue.

“Once again, we have received a fantastic welcome from our Lydney hosts and we are looking forward to their visit to

Brehal next year.”

Translations to keep the speeches flowing were provided by Charline Hue, a former Brehal resident who now lives in England and is a regular visitor to Lydney.

Lydney Twinning Association chairman, Andrew Dean, said: “The twinning relationship between our towns is now in its 28th year and some strong family friendships have become well established.

“The annual get together is always great fun and some of us can now even speak some French.”

For more information, please log onto www.lydneytwinning.org.uk