Llanidloes' French twin town Derval has presented gifts to celebrate the long-standing and special relationship that has spanned for more than a quarter of a century.

An art piece made of recycled wood which has a Welsh dragon and the symbol of Brittany, and print designed by 15-year-old from Derval of the picturesque town centre was presented to Llanidloes Town Council on Monday evening (October 24).

Mayor Jamie Jones received the gifts from Llanidloes Twinning Association's John Shercliff and local historian Nia Griffiths, whose father John Griffiths was the first chairman of the association 27 years ago.

"It is honour to receive these," the Mayor said prior to a round of applause from the town council Chamber.

County Times:

Pictured is the signing on July 16 1995 outside Llanidloes Town Hall with John Griffiths, Mayor of Llanidloes, and Michel Hunault, Mayor of Derval. Picture: Nia Griffiths.

"We very much value our relationship for over a quarter of a century. It is very profound indeed and long may it continue. I wish I could say it in French but it is absolutely fabulous. Thank you for the hard work put in to make our guests from France feel so welcome."

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Nia Griffiths said: "We definitely love it ourselves. My dad was the first chairman of the twinning 27 years ago. He would love it that it's still going and still thriving. Our bonds are still growing. It’s a very positive thing for the town."

Thirty people travelled from Derval to visit Llanidloes in July this year where they were hosted by families in and around the town. John Shercliff said: "The visit went very well. The next one we will visit in 2024 in Derval and they will come here in 2026. We missed out on two years of visits due to Covid. I would also like to thank John Hughes for coming to our meetings and liaising, and to the Town Council for funding the projects. It's a very worthwhile thing and it is very good to have a link in France."