A twinning partnership that has linked Caerphilly and Brittany for more than three decades will continue next summer, with Breton visitors being welcomed to the borough once again.
Since 1991, Caerphilly has been twinned with the Breton town of Lannion, while Llanbradach has been twinned with neighbouring Ploubezre since 1994.
The arrangement sees visitors from both Caerphilly and Brittany meet on alternating years, with the trips organised and self-funded by the Caerphilly and District Twinning Association and its counterparts in Brittany.
Like Wales, Brittany — located in the west of France — has a strong Celtic identity. It also has its own language, Breton, which shares similarities with Welsh.
Brittany’s national anthem, Bro Gozh ma Zadoù, shares the same tune as Wales’ Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.
During their visit to Brittany in August, twinning association members were treated to the usual warm hospitality from their host families, who arranged visits to places of interest in the area.
The first day included a visit to an art exhibition in Lannion, as well as a trip to the Côte de Granite Rose — or Pink Granite Coast — famous for its pink-tinted rocks and boulders scattered along the shoreline.
The trip also featured the annual boules tournament, held as part of the twinning arrangement. This year, Brittany lifted the Cy Collins trophy — named after a former association member — in hot, sunny conditions.
Visitors were also welcomed by Ploubezre Town Council and enjoyed a meal accompanied by Celtic music from local artist Mike James, who was joined by Wendy Lewis and her son Tad.
Later in the trip, the group visited the picturesque town of Lamballe, home to the National Horse Stud, and explored an art exhibition celebrating renowned local artist Mathurin Méheut.
On the Wednesday, the visitors travelled to the historic market town of Tréguier, known for its ancient cathedral, before enjoying a picnic and a boat trip in Pontrieux to view the town’s historic wash houses.
The final evening was marked by a reception hosted by the Mayor of Lannion, followed by music, a meal, and drinks.
Ahead of the return visit next year, association members will be taking part in various fundraising activities in the coming months.
The last time Caerphilly welcomed the Bretons in 2024, they were taken on visits to attractions including Big Pit and Blaenavon Heritage Centre, given a tour of the Senedd in Cardiff Bay, and taken on a river cruise along the River Taff.
The Caerphilly and District Twinning Association is ready to accept new members ahead of next year.
For more information about the association, or to join, visit the group’s Facebook page or contact chair Cllr Colin Mann on 07500 057096.
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