CHUDLEIGH twinning group has returned from a trip to France, proving that international relations between the two towns are stronger than ever.

The links with Troarn in Normandy were forged 33 years ago when the twinning association was formed in 1982 and, since then, the twinning has gone from strength to strength.

This year saw a group, including mayor of Chudleigh Cllr Richard Keeling and his deputy Cllr Chris Webb, travel to Normandy for a four-day visit.

During the trip, they visited an artisan bakery, Caen International Fair, rode motorbikes and celebrated with regional cuisine.

In a presentation at Troarn Town Hall, Cllr Keeling handed his counterpart, Troarn mayor Christophe Lemarchand, with a copy of the award-winning Chudleigh Book.

A spokesman for Chudleigh Town Twinning Group said: ‘It is always great to see families together who have known each other for more than 30 years, seen their children grow up.

‘Equally, it is good to see new families join the group on both sides of the channel.

‘It is always a very sociable time and there does seem to be a special bond between our two towns.

‘A big thank you to all those who organised the visit.

‘We are already looking forward to welcoming our French friends back to Chudleigh next spring.’

Anyone interested in joining the group can go along to the annual general meeting on Friday November 27 at 7pm at Chudleigh town hall.