Mayor of Worcester

The idea of a twin city or twin town came after WW1, when soldiers who had witnessed the devastation in northern France raised funds towards the rebuilding of Poix-du-Nord’s community centre.

This practice grew in popularity after WW2 playing a role in promoting reconciliation and reconstruction in western Europe and continues today as a way to foster links and friendships between communities to prevent future conflicts.

In 2006 Worcester entered into a friendship agreement with Vernon, in France. This was to mark the significance of the Worcestershire Regiment’s support during the Second World War.

In August 1944 the Worcestershire Regiment helped the resistance fighters to liberate Vernon and further liberate Northern France and the Low Countries.

This year marks 20 years of friendship with Vernon and I was so glad to see so many people come to visit our wonderful city.

A great thank you to the Worcester Twinning Association for organising the week.

I particularly enjoyed giving a tour of the Guildhall and sharing cake in the Mayor’s Parlour.

Thank you also to the Worcestershire Regiment for organising the lovely wreath laying that they do every year at Gheluvelt Park to signify our continued commitment to friendship with the people of Vernon and ensure their liberation will be remembered.

This week we also were able to visit The Men’s Shed in St Clement’s Church.

I brought my dad along, who was very excited to visit because it takes place in the crypt of the church.

My dad used to visit the church about once a fortnight because he attended St Clement’s Primary School and it was very surreal for him to be back.

We also both very much enjoyed the shed.

It was wonderful to meet some of their members and see the fantastic projects they are working on.

I saw their woodwork, including a brilliant wooden fox that will be placed in a few of our parks.

A group of women were creating some glass artwork, including a piece that was going to replace a diamond of glass in one of the doors in their home.

My dad also just enjoyed having a cup of tea with the other men and talking about his days working as a farm labourer. I really hope he goes back for another visit soon.

I am looking forward to the many celebratory events we have lined up later this week for the 375th Anniversary of the Battle of Worcester.

I know that The Battle of Worcester Society have spent a lot of time organising events that will bring the history to life for so many people and I look forward to joining them.