A BRASS band celebrated the 30th anniversary of its town being twinned with one in France by travelling over to mainland Europe and performing live. Hitchin Band, most of who flew from Luton Airport to Geneva in Switzerland before travelling by coach to N

A BRASS band celebrated the 30th anniversary of its town being twinned with one in France by travelling over to mainland Europe and performing live.

Hitchin Band, most of who flew from Luton Airport to Geneva in Switzerland before travelling by coach to Nuits St Georges in eastern France, had undertaken the trip to celebrate the anniversary of the twinning between Hitchin and the French commune.

Their instruments were taken overland in a van driven by two other band members.

In addition to celebrating the French connection the band also helped commemorate the French town's 190th anniversary.

During their time in Nuits band members visited wine cellars and took part in some wine tasting. They also visited the Hitchin Oak, a tree presented to the town by Hitchin which celebrated the 20th anniversary 10 years ago.

The band gave a performance, in collaboration with the Big Band of Nuits, and was later presented with a selection of local wines from the town's deputy mayor. The following day they played at a local craft fair.

Band member and secretary David Milsom said: "Not only was this a visit to cement the relationships between the towns, but also to allow new friendships to be made between the bands.

"Although Hitchin Band had visited Nuits some 15 to 20 years ago, the membership has changed completely in that time."

Mr Milsom went on to say: "This was an exceptionally worthwhile trip which we hope will be the start of a lasting relationship between the bands.

"In addition, we hope that our visit will encourage others from Hitchin and beyond to visit this very enjoyable and friendly part of France.