Hailsham and Gournay-en-Bray to Renew Twinning Charter After More Than 25 Years of Friendship

Hailsham Town Council is preparing to mark another important milestone in its long-standing friendship with the French town of Gournay-en-Bray, with representatives from both communities coming together this October to formally renew their Twinning Charter.

The visit will provide an opportunity to celebrate more than 25 years of friendship, cultural exchange and shared experiences between the two towns, while looking ahead to the next chapter of the partnership.

The twinning between Hailsham and Gournay-en-Bray was officially established in October 2000, when the original Charter was signed in Hailsham. It was subsequently renewed in 2011, and the latest re-signing will reaffirm the commitment of both communities to maintaining the close links that have developed over the years.

What began as a formal agreement between two towns has grown into a friendship between their communities. Through the work of the Hailsham & District Twinning Association, residents have had numerous opportunities to travel between the UK and France, meet new people and experience each other’s culture and traditions.

Over the years, the programme has included organised visits, sightseeing trips, carnivals, music and choral festivals, sporting activities and a wide range of social events. The association also runs regular activities for its members in and around Hailsham, including quizzes, cream teas, picnics and cycling trips.

The Mayor of Hailsham, Councillor Chris Bryant, said: “The friendship between Hailsham and Gournay-en-Bray is a wonderful example of what town twinning can achieve. Over more than 25 years, the relationship has brought people together, created friendships that have lasted across generations and given residents of both towns the chance to learn more about each other’s communities and cultures.

“It is a great honour to be involved in renewing the Twinning Charter this October. This is not simply a reaffirmation of an agreement signed many years ago; it is a celebration of the people who have made the partnership such a success and a commitment to keeping that friendship alive for many years to come.”

Town Clerk John Harrison said: “The strength of a twinning relationship is measured not just by official visits or ceremonies, but by the personal connections and shared experiences that develop between communities. The enduring relationship between Hailsham and Gournay-en-Bray is testament to the dedication of everyone who has supported the partnership over the years.

“The renewal of the Charter gives us an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved while looking forward to new opportunities for cooperation, cultural exchange and friendship. We are very pleased to continue supporting the Hailsham & District Twinning Association and our counterparts in Gournay-en-Bray.”

Hailsham Town Council continues to support the work of the Hailsham & District Twinning Association, which welcomes new members and offers a friendly way for residents to become involved in the town’s international links.

Membership costs £10 per person per year, or £40 for groups, and provides opportunities to take part in social activities, organised visits and events involving visitors from Gournay-en-Bray.

Anyone interested in joining the association or finding out more about its activities can contact Pauline Townsend (Secretary) on 01323 846539 or visit the Hailsham & District Twinning Association website.