Guten tag to our friends from Bedford’s German twin town of Bamberg, who are visiting as part of the two towns' ongoing international friendship.
The visit was the result of cooperation between Bedford Borough Council, our counterparts at the Stadtrat in Bamberg, and the Bedford Bamberg Association.
A German delegation arrived at Stansted on Tuesday, headed by Bürgermeister Wolfgang Metzner. They were treated to a reception at the Old Town Hall on Wednesday, before heading to Pavenham Park Golf Club for a welcome party.
And while the visitors met with Bedford dignitaries and members of the Bedford Bamberg Association, Bürgermeister Metzner also took time to chat with German language students from Bedford Modern School to discuss a range of topics and help them hone their linguistic skills!
The week-long trip is also taking in visits to other nearby attractions, such as a trip to the Roman Theatre, Verulamium Museum and Cathedral in St Albans, and to watch morris dancing in Lincoln.
Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford Borough said; “I’m incredibly keen to ensure that we strengthen bonds with our friends in Bamberg.
“Our two towns have been twinned since 1977, and this link offers so many opportunities for all ages. I was particularly delighted to see the students discussing politics and history - in German! - with Bürgermeister Metzner.
“Special thanks also go to everyone who has worked so hard to maintain our friendship links, including the Bedford Bamberg Association, and Brigitte Riegelbauer in the mayor’s office in Bamberg.
“Here’s to another half-century of friendship – prost!”.