THE lord mayor of Hildesheim will be travelling to Weston to celebrate 40 years of partnership between the two towns.

In 1983, Weston twinned with Hildesheim, which can be found in Lower Saxony, Germany. Since then, the two towns have been exchanging ideas and learning more about different cultures.

Educational exchanges have also played a significant aspect in the twinning relationship. Students have been known to visit each other's towns, staying with host families and gaining invaluable cross-cultural experiences.

Members of the youth exchange team will accompany Dr Ingo Meyer, the mayor, when he visits. The goal is to encourage more students to take part in the exchange.

The mayor of Weston, councillor Ciaran Cronnelly, and deputy mayor councillor John Crockford-Hawley, will host a party showcasing some of Weston’s highlights. Not only will this be a culturally significant experience for the visiting group, but also illustrate the benefits of the collaboration.

The programme includes a visit to the RNLI station, a tour of Thatcher’s cider farm, attending The Weston Lions Beer & Ale festival and an official Charter signing at Weston Museum.

Mayor Cronnelly said: “We’ve had a long-established relationship with Hildesheim and we’re delighted that they’ll be returning this year to see our beautiful town.

"This year is extra special because it’s 40 years since we twinned and we’re pleased to be able to celebrate this together and further strengthen our relationship.

"We live in a volatile world where fostering of international friendships and understanding between young people is more important than ever.”

A spokesperson from Weston Town Council explains the importance of these collaborations: "Twinning, or sister city programs, are initiatives that facilitate connections between communities in different countries, encouraging cultural, educational, and economic exchanges.

"The twinning of Weston-super-Mare and Hildesheim has proven to be a meaningful and enriching experience for both towns. It has allowed the residents to appreciate their similarities and differences, promoting cultural diversity, and global understanding.

"The partnership has endured for many years, and it continues to strengthen the ties between these two vibrant communities."

For those that wish to be kept informed, you can follow the group’s week on the mayor’s Facebook page, where regular updates will be posted.