Portishead Twinnings

The Portishead Twinning Association visit to Schweich this year marked the 30th anniversary of our initial twinning with the German town. Nine members arrived in Schweich on the evening of 7th July ready for organised trips to the medieval town of Bernkastel-Kues and the Roman city of Trier. In Berkastel we visited the new museum of classic cars and technology at Zylinderhaus. Our visit to Trier included a guided tour of the late antique burial ground in St Maximim. Each host also organised individual days and trips to entertain their guests.

On the Sunday evening a gala celebration event was held to commemorate our 30 years of Twinning. Over 100 people attended the dinner where photographs and stories of our numerous events over the years were shared whilst local singers and musicians entertained us throughout the evening. Commemorative gifts and speeches were exchanged, including a wonderfully engraved glass bowl which will be placed on display in the Portishead Twinning Association cabinet in the heritage centre in the Folk Hall.

To celebrate the 30th anniversary members of both associations gathered outside the Town Hall in front of the chestnut tree which was planted on the first visit to Schweich. Daisy Bickley ( Portishead) and Dr Harald Bartos ( Schweich) planted that first tree and both were present again 30 years later to celebrate the occasion.

Remarkably for 2022 we enjoyed a travel trouble free trip both ways. We look forward to welcoming the Burgomeister, town officials and our German friends to Portishead during 2023. If you are interested in hosting new friends from Schweich or simply want to find out more about Portishead Twinning Association please contact Steve Pratt at: stevepratt1@googlemail.com