In 2004 Crowland celebrated 10 years of twinning with Parigne L'Eveque in France.
Parigne L'Eveque is a small town (population approximately 4,660) lying a few miles to the south east of Le Mans in the beautiful Sarthe region of France. During the exchange visits, the visitors stay with host families and participate in various activities arranged by the twinning organisers.
Last year the Parigne Twinning asked whether they could visit over the August Bank Holiday as this coincided with local celebrations that they wished to participate in. Many of us also wanted to introduce our friends to the new river boat service from Spalding to Springfields. Luckily the sun shone during the boat ride and for the duration of their stay.
This summer we returned to Parigne for a long, gloriously sunny weekend which included visits to the nearby Chateau Le Lude, to a "Rillettes" factory (rillettes are a type of coarse pate and one of the local specialities) and to La Ferte Bernard known as the "little Venice of the west" where we discovered the small town by boat. The Twinning Dinner took place in a small restaurant on the banks of the river Sarthe.
The benefits of belonging to a twinning association are enormous: long term friendships, warm hospitality and the opportunity to experience a different way of life are just a few. For our younger members, the opportunity to speak French with "real French people" in their home environment is something a school trip to France cannot hope to match.
In between visits, each side is busy fundraising and our "Goulash Evenings" have become part of the social calendar in Crowland, as have our summer barbecues. We are always looking for new ways to raise money and will be planning some new events before our French friends return next year. We are always keen to welcome new members who would like to become involved.
If you would like further information please contact: Mrs Luter 01733 210402.
