Zut alors! Cut price twinning trip announced for students

Places left for visit to Hungerford's twin town Ligueil

A TOWN-twinning trip to Ligueil in France has been organised for next month.

The cost of the trip is £150 per head - but with support from the Town and Manor of Hungerford the Hungerford Twinning Association can offer places for school pupils and students in full-time education at a subsidised price of only £50.

Association chairwoman Penny Brookman said: “A party of association members is travelling to visit our twin town, Ligueil, in the central Loire valley of France, from May 28 to 31. We would welcome anyone who lives or works in Hungerford and surrounding villages to join us, and are particularly keen to recruit families, and students of local schools and colleges.

“The Association was established in 1980, and exists to promote friendship and mutual understanding between our two towns. Ligueil was chosen for it's similar location and size to Hungerford, and is a delightful town in central France, approximately 40km from Tours, on the edge of the Loire Valley, and close to many excellent chateaux and vineyards.”

Membership of the Association is open to everyone, of all ages, who lives or works in Hungerford and the surrounding area.

The association is particularly keen to involve more young families, as it has well-established links with both primary and secondary schools in Ligueil and regularly exchanges resources. Ms Brookman said: “Amongst our visitors last year were nearly 20 youngsters, with an age range from eight to 18 years.”

Annual membership is £10 per family or individual, and regular newsletters keep members informed of activities including regular social occasions and also fund-raising events.

There are plenty of opportunities to be involved, even if people feel unable to host.

Exchange visits take place bi-annually, with visitors staying as guests in host homes and experiencing hospitality with social events and sightseeing as well as some organized activities. Knowledge of French is not a requirement.

For more information, contact Ms brookman on (01488) 683314 or via email at brookman@upperdenford.fsnet.co.uk