A party from Bridport's twin town of Saint Vasst La Hougue made a trip across the English Channel last weekend.

The trip marked the 38th exchange between the two towns, with guests arriving in Bridport in the early hours of Saturday morning having been affected by some ferry delays.

Town crier John Collingwood officially announced their arrival with a cry in Buckydoo Square, showing off some of his French skills, and a civic reception was held for the visiting party at Bridport Town Hall.

Before the speeches began, the Mayor of Bridport, Cllr Dave Bolwell, received a photograph album that contained a record of the visit to Saint Vaast last year, as well as a new version of the St Vaast Flag.

In return, he presented a framed series of pictures of the local area to the French guests.

The twinning party later gathered at Bridport WI Hall for a buffet lunch

The mayor commented: The two twinning associations obviously work hard to make the visits worthwhile and it is wonderful to see the long lasting relationships that exist between the hosts and their guests and I am convinced the two towns will become closer as the years go by and friendships will deepen even more."

If you are interested in becoming involved with the twinning association, further information is available by contacting chairman Jonathan Dines on [email protected], or for membership contact secretary Linda Bullock at: [email protected]

You an also find more details at www.bridport-and-saint-vaast-twinning- association.org.uk