45-year-old friendship celebrated and strengthened with re-signing of Twinning Charter between Truro and Morlaix

A 45-year bond between Truro and Morlaix has been marked with a formal re-signing of the Twinning Charter this weekend, reaffirming the relationship between the two cities. This twinning programme, which began in 1979, continues to foster friendship and cultural exchange, with regular visits and events involving both communities.

45 Years of Cultural Exchange

The original twinning, organised by Truro City Council and the French town of Morlaix, was expanded in 2005 to include three neighbouring towns. Over the past four decades, groups from both sides have visited each other annually, building lasting relationships. This year’s visit included a special ceremony to mark the 45th anniversary of the Twinning Charter.

On Saturday, Mayor of Morlaix Jean-Paul Vermot, along with two of the city’s Deputy Mayors, Guy Pennec and Sandrine Autret, joined Truro Mayor Carol Swain and other local dignitaries in Truro’s Mayor’s Parlour to re-sign the Charter. Members of the Truro-Morlaix Twinning Association were also present to witness the historic moment.

A Continued Commitment to Friendship

Speaking at the ceremony, Carol Swain highlighted the significance of the partnership between Truro, Morlaix, and the German town of Boppard. “These strong cultural links have enabled us to continue to maintain bonds of friendship and understanding with two of our European neighbours,” she said. “By re-signing the Charter we are reaffirming that this friendship, which has already lasted 45 years, will continue into the future.”

Jean-Paul Vermot echoed her sentiments, pointing to the value of maintaining relationships at a time of global unrest. “The English people were our best allies during the last century when we fought together during two world wars, and I want to say thank you,” he said. “We know that war is back in Europe and I hope that, with the exchanges of people and all the works we do together, we will continue to be best friends for the coming centuries.”

Strengthening Bonds for the Future

This year’s exchange was led by Rachel Killick, Chair of the Truro Morlaix Twinning Association, and Anne Inizan, President of the Pays de Morlaix Truro Association de Jumelage. Rachel emphasised the importance of building lasting relationships across borders: “Our twinning with Morlaix was founded in 1979 and has now been going for 45 years. This has led to the creation of some long-standing friendships.”

The association is eager to attract new members to continue its work. Rachel explained that there are four exchange visits with Morlaix each year, alongside other social events. Those interested in joining can find more information on the Truro Morlaix Twinning Association website.

A Weekend of Celebration

In addition to the re-signing ceremony, the delegation from Morlaix, which included 17 other guests, enjoyed a variety of activities during their stay. These included visits to local attractions such as Trevaskis Farm, Trelissick, and Lanhydrock. The weekend celebrations concluded with a traditional Cornish lunch, featuring scones with jam and cream — with the jam applied first, of course.

This reaffirmation of the Truro-Morlaix twinning marks a continuation of the friendship, with plans for future exchanges and events already in motion.