The parish of St Saviour’s has been ‘twinned’ with Montebourg for more than 30 years, both committed to maintaining a relationship to promote cultural and commercial exchanges.
‘In these dark times when the world seems dangerous, I think twinning is more important than ever, because it embraces the joy of difference and celebrates peace and friendship,’ said Stuart Crisp, president of the local twinning association.
La Foire de la Chandeleur started off as a cattle fair more than 900 years ago, though it has now expanded to include a French market, a fruit tree market, a funfair and commercial stalls.
During their visit, the St Saviour’s travellers set up their own stall to promote all things Guernsey – an annual endeavour they have been undertaking now for more than 40 years.
‘Each year it is a challenge to get to Montebourg at this time of year due to sailing times and the weather,’ said Mr Crisp.
‘However, this year Brittany Ferries’ Wednesday sailing and their generous sponsorship has made it much easier.’
This year, the Guernsey stall sold a variety of Guernsey Dairy products, ales from Liberation Group, gin from the Channel Island Liquor Company, cider from the Rocquettes Cider Farm, various souvenirs provided by Jill Vaudin Publishing, traditional guernseys from Le Tricoteur, and books published in French by Blue Ormer. They also provided French Visit Guernsey leaflets to provide further information about the island.
‘The service run by Brittany Ferries has obviously drawn increased interest from French visitors,’ said Mr Crisp. ‘I believe that we also have made an impact in encouraging people from the Norman Peninsular to come to Guernsey.’
The Twinning Association also brings two dozen students from La Salle Abbaye Montebourg, an agricultural school, over to Guernsey every year, and a class at La Houguette Primary School also recently linked with a primary school in Montebourg, enabling them to exchange communications in English and French.
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