On the weekend of May 5-7th, our friends from Lestrem came to Swanland for the bi-annual visit. The Lestremois, the Swanland host families and friends had a most enjoyable time together.

Supported by the Village Hall committee and staff, the group arranged activities to entertain everyone. Saturday evening saw an Anglo-French Quiz Night and despite some minor translation difficulties, we all had a great evening. Raffles held on Saturday and Sunday realised a total of £330 towards group funds and we are grateful to the businesses of Swanland who provided all our prizes.

On Sunday, a walking group completed the first section of the Wolds way, whilst Swanland Tennis Club and members provided a venue and competition for players from Lestrem, both at the Club morning and later in the day, at an American Tournament. The French really enjoyed and appreciated the efforts of the Club.

The visitors brought several folk musicians and dancers. They went to the ‘Back Room’ at Cottingham where they joined local singers and players for a two hour jamming session together. Back to the village Hall on Sunday evening, and the French Folk group entertained a packed venue with a ‘French barn dance’. The icing on the cake was given by the Green Ginger Morris Men and Ladies Garland Dancers. Their colourful display thrilled the audience, both English and French alike.

At a final reception on Monday morning, gifts were presented to retired Chairmen, Jacques Brassart and Dr Malcolm Thompson, both of whom established the Twinning venture in 2000. Presentations were made by Colin Hotham and John downing, both ex-Chairmen of Swanland Parish Council during this twinning period.

The French returned home in buoyant mood, looking forward to our visit to Lestrem in 2008.

In May, Swanland Primary School continued their most successful exchange with their counterparts in Lestrem. Once again, new friends and acquaintances were established and children and staff look forward to the return visit to Swanland in early October 2007.

One of our main fund raising events for the year will take place on SATURDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2007. This will be our popular annual Quiz Night with questions based on all aspects of French life. It will be held in the Village Hall at 7.30pm and includes a French style supper with wine. Tickets will be £5 - make a note in your diaries.

Are you interested in visiting Lestrem with us next year - May 2008? If so, get in touch with any of the Committee.

If you are interested to know more about Lestrem, visit the Lestrem Twinning Website, which is being developed. There is also our library of information on Lestrem and district, held by Margrit Priestley-Leach at 21 Manor Road. Margrit will be pleased to loan you any of our books, videos, or other documents on application.