Whilst the terms of the UK’s exit from the EU remain uncertain, one thing remains very clear which is the strength of the partnership with Frome’s twin towns in Europe. At a recent meeting of partners from Frome, Murrhardt (Germany), Chateau Gontier (France) and Rabka Zdrój (Poland), the following declaration was agreed:
“Europe is facing difficult times because of the refugee crisis and Brexit in the UK. Partnerships between towns in the form of Twinning have long been part of the process of fostering unity between European citizens living the European ideal which enables encounters between different cultures to meet and grow together in peace and friendship. This is how over the decades since the end of the Second World War communities have developed a solid base for a peaceful Europe building on unity, prosperity and friendship.
The towns of Chateau-Gontier, Frome, Murrhardt, Rabka Zdrój and Rotha see it as their duty in these difficult times to continue to stand up for a stable and united Europe that is built on peace, freedom and prosperity. The Quadripartite towns will continue to work together to impart these ideals into future generations building on the success we have already achieved.
This can be achieved in various ways including work, business, social, cultural and educational exchanges and by the town councils cooperating and facilitating these exchanges.”
One of the ways in which this partnership is being taken forward is through a Thematic Networking Programme where partners from the 4 towns have been exchanging information and ideas and developing projects of mutual interest that will bring practical benefits to each of the towns. One of the ideas that has emerged is to develop an international work experience programme in which young people will have an opportunity to experience working abroad. A pilot programme involving Frome and Murrhardt is well advanced and expected to take place next February.
Frome Town Council & Frome Twinning Association
For further information, please contact Peter Wheelhouse, Frome Town Council at wheelhousep@frometowncouncil.gov.uk or Damon Hooton of the Frome Twinning Association at damon.hooton@gmail.com
