Caerphilly celebrates 25 years of twin agreement between with French town Lannion

The 25th anniversary of the twinning of Caerphilly and Lannion towns has been commemorated with a plaque and four-day visit by residents of the French town.

Lannion, in Brittany, was twinned with Caerphilly in 1991, after a delegation from the French town headed to Wales looking for a partnership with a local town. After visiting Bridgend, Pontypridd and Caerphilly, the latter was chosen.

A special plaque was unveiled on Caerphilly Library by two pioneers of the twinning arrangement, Cllr Phil Bevan and former councillor Jean-Jacques Monnier, as Caerphilly Castle flew a Breton flag from one of its towers for the duration of the four-day visit.

A group of 47 visitors enjoyed a series of events over the weekend of July 22, including trips to Abergavenny – where the national Eistedfodd is currently being held – Cosmeston Lakes, and the Royal Mint in Llantrisant.

The group also got up-close-and-personal with local folk dance group Dawnswyr Nantgarw at a social evening in Llanbradach, attempting to learn Twmpath dancing.

The visit concluded with a gala dinner in Caerphilly Castle, with entertainment from the Aber Valley Male Voice Choir, harpist Sian Williams, and Stevie J.

Possibly inspired by the recent exploits of the Welsh football team, the home side narrowly won the traditional Cy Collins boules trophy for the first time in several years.

Twinning Association Chairman, John Reardon, said: “The visit was outstanding. All our Breton visitors thoroughly enjoyed each of the activities we arranged for them as well as the social evenings. I must sincerely thank the host families for their hospitality and the committee who worked diligently throughout the year. In my opinion it was the best ever visit.”

Twinning Association membership is open to all local residents.
Further details are available from John and Jayne Reardon on 029 2221 0321.