Members of the Ross-on-Wye and Betzdorf Twinning Association have returned from Germany following another successful exchange visit that reinforced the strong friendship between the two towns. A group of around 25 people travelled from Ross-on-Wye to Betzdorf in May, where they were welcomed by host families and friends with whom many have built relationships over several decades.

The visit formed part of the long-running twinning partnership between Ross-on-Wye and Betzdorf, which celebrated its 40th anniversary last year when a large German delegation visited Herefordshire.

During the week-long trip, members attended a Civic Reception at Betzdorf Town Hall, where they were warmly welcomed by Bürgermeister Johannes Behner. Ross Town Councillor Chris Bartrum gave a reciprocal speech on behalf of the Mayor of Ross-on-Wye, Councillor Sarah Freer, highlighting the importance of maintaining links between communities across Europe.

The Ross group also enjoyed a programme of cultural visits and social activities, alongside valuable time spent with their host families. Many members described the excursion to Drachenfels, overlooking the Rhine Valley, as the highlight of the trip. Travelling to the summit on the historic Drachenfels railway, visitors were rewarded with spectacular views across one of Germany’s most famous landscapes.

Chair of the Ross-on-Wye and Betzdorf Twinning Association, Dr Lynn O’Driscoll, said the visit demonstrated that the friendship between the two towns remains as strong as ever.

“Everywhere we went we received a wonderfully warm welcome,” she said. “Several of our German friends told us how pleased they were that we had made the journey. It was a reminder of how much these relationships mean to people on both sides.”
The visit also included an overnight stay in Ypres, where many members attended the moving Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate, as well as visits to Bonn, Leuven and other historic locations.

Like many voluntary organisations, membership numbers have gradually declined over recent years, while the cost of travel has increased substantially.

Speaking at the Association’s Annual General Meeting, Dr O’Driscoll said that the organisation would need to think creatively about its future if the partnership is to continue thriving.

“The experience remains overwhelmingly positive for those who take part,” she said. “The challenge is not whether twinning is worthwhile. The challenge is ensuring that enough people continue to take part so that the organisation remains sustainable. We must remember that twinning is not simply a social club. It supports a civic relationship between Ross-on-Wye and Betzdorf that has existed for more than forty years. The friendships we enjoy today were built by previous generations, and we have a responsibility to ensure that future generations have the same opportunity. The bonds that bring us together are stronger than the forces that seek to divide us. In an uncertain world, friendships between communities like ours have never been more important.”

Despite the challenges, Association members remain optimistic that the partnership can continue to evolve and prosper.