13 June 2023
Truro hosted a visit by a group from the German town of Boppard last week as part of a long running cultural exchange programme between the two places.
Whilst the first connection between Boppard and Truro goes back over 800 years when King Richard of Cornwall (who was also elected King of Germany and Earl of Cornwall) built the Electors Castle on the banks of the Rhine, it was not until 1991 that the two towns signed a formal official twinning agreement.
Since then the members of the two Twinning Associations have visited each other’s towns almost every year.
“There is a very strong relationship between the councils of both towns “ said Truro City Councillor Stuart Roden, who chairs the Truro Twinning Association. “This has led to ideas of best practice being shared as well as exchange visits which are not only very educational but also lots of fun. “
This year’s visit by members from Boppard, which took place between 8 and 12 June, began with an official reception at the Mayor’s Parlour, hosted by the Mayor of Truro Councillor Carol Swain. The group then took part in a wide range of activities, including a walking tour of Truro led by Blue Badge Guide Di Smith; a visit to Truro Farmers Market, where they were greeted by the Mayor and Town Crier Lionel Knight, a picnic at Sunny Corner and a walk around Malpas; a Cornish pasty making demonstration; a bowls taster session followed by a cream tea at Truro Bowls Club, and an open air band concert in Victoria Gardens.
The group also enjoyed watching a show at the Hall for Cornwall, took a boat trip to Falmouth, and travelled by train to St Ives where they had the opportunity to visit the Tate Gallery.
“It has been a fantastic visit and we have certainly been able to cram in a lot of activities and renew our strong relationship with our colleagues from Boppard” said Councillor Roden. “There is no doubt that our visitors have been impressed by their visit to Truro and have enjoyed the opportunity to explore our great little city and surrounding areas.
Describing the visit as an overwhelming success, the group from Boppard said they had thoroughly enjoyed their time in Truro and wanted to thank everyone in the wonderful “Truro team” for arranging the varied, fun programme and for making them feel so welcome.
“From meeting the mayor, the town crier and other members of the Council, to making pasties and trying to play bowls, going on a beautiful boat trip and enjoying the stunning landscape and beaches – we all had a great time” said one member of the group while another added “It was one of the best experiences of my life. Loved everything about my stay – the landscape, the city and, most of all, the lovely people. You made everything so special”.
“Despite Brexit, the distance between our towns and the gaps between twinning trips, we have rekindled old friendships and forged new ones, and found and shared common laughs “ said another member. “Everyone has felt a real sense of true communication and connection and we are looking forward to continuing this in Boppard where Truro is welcome any time!”.
Members from Truro are hoping to return to Boppard next year and are very keen to hear from anyone interested in joining the association. Please email Councillor Roden at rodenstuart@gmail.com for more information.
Truro also has a long standing twinning agreement with the French town of Morlaix in Brittany. Established in 1979 by the two Mayors at that time. the Truro – Morlaix Twinning Association organises annual trips to Morlaix, as well as welcoming representatives of the French town to Truro.
