Memories of exchange visits by residents from Shrewsbury and Zutphen are now available to read online, on the twinning website.
The tales aim to reflect the value of the Twinning experience. Shrewsbury’s connection with Zutphen has always been strong, from post Second World War humanitarian aid – organised in 1945 by the Mayor and citizens of Shrewsbury town for the starving residents of Zutphen, to the signing of a formal Twinning Agreement in 1977, and on to the present day.
As well as the annual official exchange visits by the town’s respective Mayors, and a small civic group, over the years thousands of residents from both communities, either as individuals or more often as members of all types of organisations, have crossed and re-crossed the North Sea to live in each other’s homes, share in each other’s activities and experience each other’s cultures.
Now their tales are recounted on the dedicated Twinning website, under the heading Twinners’ Tales.
Richard White, Shropshire Music Adviser for a number of years, and Sietze Wierda, his opposite in Zutphen, recall the many exchanges by instrumental and choral groups, involving hundreds of participants of all ages.
In contrast, Shrewsbury’s Town Crier, Martin Wood, recalls his solo visit to Zutphen to compete successfully in an international event for Town Criers. Douglas Bradbury, a former SABC Chief Executive, has also contributed to the site, writing of the great value of more private exchanges and the long lasting friendships established through visiting and hosting.
The most recent contribution from Zutphen is from Jet Rotmans, a writer, photographer and artist, who knows both towns well.
She is currently working on a project to create art books, designed to capture the visual essence of both towns.
Councillor Alan Townsend, who has collated the tales said: “These website pages offer an opportunity for others to share their memories of the Twinning experience, either as visitors or hosts. Contributions for inclusion, both written and photographic, would be most welcome. “
Please email your contributions to arhtownsend@btinternet.com or post them to Councillor Alan Townsend, c/o The Guildhall, Frankwell Quay, Shrewsbury, SY1 8HR.”
To find out more about Twinning, and to read the Twinners’ Tales, visit www.shrewsburyzutphentwinning.co.uk
For further information contact Suzi Wilkinson, Marketing & Promotions Officer on: 01743 257654 or 01743 257654 or email suzi.wilkinson-stc@shropshire.gov.uk