The Shelfords welcomed a party of around 35 children and adults from Verneuil en Halatte at the beginning of July 2016.  The group were here for a total of 4 days and experienced a rich and varied programme of events.

Having arrived in sunshine on the Friday evening, the next day was scheduled as the ‘family day’ where guests are entertained by their hosts. As many of our guests were new to the Twinning experience, we spent a day in Cambridge, punting, visiting colleges and having lunch out. It was a delight to show our guests Cambridge at its best and to do all the things that we would not normally do on a Saturday!

On Sunday, the group went to Holkham Hall in Norfolk, visiting the Hall, farming museum and walking round the beautiful grounds. They were impressed with the friendliness of the staff in the house and the people working outside in the gardens, where they were encouraged to eat the strawberries and pick the rhubarb!

That evening we held a ceilidh at Shelford Rugby club for our visitors and host families, an evening which was appreciated by all.

On Monday, the adults and teenagers sampled the delights of Saffron Walden, with a walking tour to take in the highlights, whilst the younger children had a very stimulating morning at Shelford School, where they visited classes, watched rehearsals for the Pied Piper, and were treated to a special celebration assembly. Our thanks go to Mrs Evans and the staff of the school for their hospitality.

Sarah Haddow