THE 25th anniversary of twinning between Llandrindod Wells and Contrexéville, France has been celebrated with visitors from across Europe.

Twenty two guests from Contrexéville and eight from Bad Rappenau, Germany, two towns which share twinning agreements with Llandrindod Wells, came over to stay in Mid Wales to celebrate the milestone.

Llandrindod Mayor, Councillor Jon Williams said: “We were lucky to have an original member from 25 years ago, come over and sign the charter.

“I think the twinning relationship opens up so many opportunities for the young people. It means they can go and experience what it is like living with a family in Germany or France and expereince all the cultural differences and similarities.“They had some concerns with Brexit and that the link may be lost, but I think if anything it’s made it stronger.

“No matter what happens, we’re going to stay twinned.”

The groups were welcomed to the town by Llandrindod’s Town Crier, Jan Swindale, at a reception in the Hotel Commodore.

On the first day the visitors from Bad Rappenau visited the award winning Judge’s Lodging Presteigne.

After exploring the Elan Valley Visitor Centre the group moved on to Devil’s Bridge to board a steam train on the Vale of Rheidol Railway for the trip down to Aberystwyth.

In Aberystwyth they enjoyed walks along the promenade and traditional fish and chips.

On their return journey the group stopped in Llanidloes to eat at the Angel Inn.

The third day was spent exploring Brecon and taking a trip on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.

The main event of the visit was a Celebration Dinner at Llandrindod Wells Golf Club attended by Cllr Williams along with 60 guests and supporters from France, Wales and Germany.

Rob Shelton, Chairman of Llandrindod Twinning Association, spoke about the close friendship and collaboration between the communities over the past twenty five years.

He presented British rose bushes to Babette Simonin, President of Contrexéville Twinning Association and Sibylle Hummel, President of Bad Rappenau Twinning Association to be planted in “Friendship Gardens” in both towns.

Babette Simonin and Sibylle Hummel made presentations to Llandrindod Committee members.

Cllr Williams made a special presentation of antique Contrexéville spa water bottles to the presidents of the three Twinning Associations.

The bottles symbolised vessels that can be filled with friendship between the towns.

 He looked forward to welcoming a group of scouts from Bad Rappenau who will be visiting Llandrindod in August and to more cultural exchanges in the next 25 years.

Picture: Guests from Contrexéville (France) and Bad Rappenau (Germany) along with their hosts, the Mayor of Llandrindod Wells, Councillor Jon Williams with family and the Deputy Mayor Cllr Elaine Worgan.