HEXHAM played host to a party of 53 people of all ages from its French twin town, Noyon during the Easter weekend.

But it was no ordinary visit – it was a very special celebration of 25 years of twinning between the two towns.

Those who were present at the original signing of the accord between the two mayors were remembered at the civic reception, which took place for the first time in Hexham Abbey’s Great Hall last Saturday morning.

Francine Labarre, widow of former Noyon mayor Bertrand Labarre, made her first visit since the occasion and former Mayor of Hexham, Richard Boaden, also attended.

A group photo was taken in Hexham’s recently refurbished Bandstand and a plaque commemorating the 25th anniversary was unveiled on a bench in Beaumont Street.

Afterwards, new visitors to Hexham had the chance of a guided tour of the Abbey in French, while others chose to follow a self-guided itinerary around the town, using an informative leaflet translated into French by bi-lingual committee member Camille Mills.

Meanwhile, Bin 21 played its part in the proceedings by putting on a wine tasting of English sparkling wines – even French champagne connoisseurs had to admit that the English had learnt a thing or two about wine production and had a quality product on their hands.

The nearby Forum cinema also opened its doors to the French visitors, showing an archive film about the region It’s not only Coal, as well as inviting small groups to visit their fascinating projection room at the top of the building.

Sunday was a day of further celebration at Langley Castle where a party of 108 English hosts and their French guests gathered.

Like most twinning visits, the Sunday evening finale was a lively ceilidh in Allendale Village Hall. Music was provided by the Hexham Village Band – many of whom visited Noyon last year.

To round off the weekend on a sweet note, a special celebration cake was cut during a pause from the dancing.

Co-chair Mon Richford said: “Our aim is to be an inclusive organisation that welcomes all who share an interest in continuing links with Europe.

“Through our regular conversation groups, led by native speakers, to our film evenings and social events, we try to offer a range of positive experiences.”

More information is available at www.hexhamtowntwinning.co.uk