NEWPORT AND DISTRICT TWINNING ASSOCIATION
About 15 years ago, a few individuals in Newport thought it would be an interesting and worthwhile venture to find a twin town in Brittany, the western arm of France. Given the shared cultural heritage and close linguistic ties - Breton is closely allied to Welsh - a search ensued to find a similar town to Newport and its nearby villages of Nevern and Moylegrove.
The town of Plouguin was chosen, in the north west of Brittany near Brest. It is near the coast, has a similarly sized population, a large farming community and a keen interest in preserving its native language.
So, in 1993, the exchanges began. They take place over the early May Bank Holiday weekend and alternate, one year we go to Plouguin and the next, they come here. The trips are always great fun, and are open to everyone, families, individuals, couples, and require no special knowledge of French or Breton!
In recent years, the towns have had a theme running through the exchange. It might be the roles of Welsh and Breton; the migration of people to and from our communities, or the special part the coast plays in our lives. There are always dinners, plenty of music and dancing for the active!
A vast amount of camaraderie and goodwill has built up over the years, resulting in friendships that sometimes continue into other visits at other times of the year. The host family provides all entertainment (much of it organised on a group basis), all food and accommodation.
The trips are usually subsidised and are very affordable, the estimated cost for this year's trip (2007)being £70 to £80 per person, depending on final numbers. The only other cost is for presents to bring home, so let's hope you will decide to join us and add to the experience.
If you are interested in joining the Association, please contact either: Julian Orbach 01239 820099 or Elfed Evans 01239 820401
