VISIT TO HARTFORD IN JULY 2009
More than 30 Mornantais 'twins' will visit Hartford for a long weekend from July 16-19, 2009. The guests will include the new Mayor, Jules Dutel and his wife, as well as many familiar faces who have been involved since the twinning began more than 20 years ago.
The weekend will begin at the Salt Museum on the evening of Thursday, July 16, with the launch of an exhibition of photographs and paintings depicting the Mornant area which will be on display until August 16.
Friday will be free for Hartford hosts to take their visitors to a variety of places, individually or in small groups - as some will be on their first visit and keen to learn about Hartford and Northwich, while others will be familiar with many of the local sightseeing attractions and prefer to go further afield. In the afternoon there will be an opportunity for them to make a garden visit at Dutton Locks where committee members Nigel and Jane Lyle and their neighbours are opening their gardens to raise money for The Smile Train, which provides free cleft palate surgery for children in developing countries.
On Friday evening there will be a barn dance at Vale Royal Abbey at 7:30 pm, featuring the Flaxmere folk music band.
On Saturday, July 18, the Mornantais will be guests at a public event at Marshalls Arm which has been organised with them in mind to showcase the village nature reserve and emphasise British customs. There will be a guided walk by "Mr Marshall" starting at 3 pm from the Stones Manor Lane Entrance and a hog roast and other attractions.
Some of the party who have to work on Monday morning will be flying back to Lyon from Manchester Airport on Sunday afternoon but for those remaining there will be an informal barbecue hosted by Deryck and Martine Petty from 3 pm to 7 pm.
Apart from two French families who are holidaying in England and bringing their caravans, the Mornantais will stay - as always - in the homes of those associated with the twinning committee.
If you would like to come to any of the events or get involved in the Exchange, please contact the chairman or secretary.