Hitchin’s town twinners enjoyed fireworks, wine and above all a warm Teutonic welcome during their latest visit to Bingen am Rhein.
More than 40 members of the Hitchin Twinning Assocation travelled to the twin town in the Rhineland – where the hospitable Germans laid on a wine tasting, a trip to the Asbach Uralt brandy distillery and a tour of the Hesse state capital Wiesbaden.
Bingen’s mayor welcomed the English visitors and announced that as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations next year, Hitchin twinning patron Richard Cox will be made an honorary citizen of Bingen.
Robert Lord, chairman of the Hitchin twinners, fondly recalled their ride on the funicular railway to the top of the Neroberg for lunch in Wiesbaden, with a great view of the city.
Richard, however, said the highlight was the ‘Rhine in Flames’ evening cruise to the Lorelei, a steep 433ft rock on the right riverbank.
“A spectacular firework display lit up the river, castles and high cliffs,” said Richard.
“Then there was a disco on board for the return journey, with dancing all the way back to Bingen.”
Next year the twinners will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Bingen link by inviting their German friends to Hitchin.
Richard said: “We always welcome new members, including families, who would like to join in our activities and maybe host German guests.”
To find out more see hitchintwinning.org.uk.
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