Oakham residents meet with people form German twin town of Barmstedt

People interested in joining a twinning programme met with visitors from the German town of Barmstedt.

The Oakham and District Twinning Association welcomed more than 60 people to an event at Oakham Castle with the aim of reviving the nearly 40-year partnership.

The two towns have been twinned since 1987 but membership has dwindled in recent years.

Speakers at the event included Oakham mayor Adam Lowe and Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr Sarah Furness, who shared their thoughts on the importance of twinning and the benefits it can bring to both towns.

The mayor of Barmstedt, Frau Heike Döpke, also spoke at the event, which formed part of her first visit to Oakham. She was joined by chairperson of the Barmstedt Twinning Association, Frau Susanne Schmidt.

The visitors were given a framed photo of Oakham High Street from 1935 and an Oakham Town Council shield. In return they presented a framed copy of the original twinning charter from 1937.

The Oakham group now plans to hold a meeting to discuss future events. Plans could include a visit from the German group in July ahead of trips to Barmstedt in September and during its Christmas market.

Anyone who would like to join can email adamfromoakham@gmail.com or call 07801 541389 for more details.