A SPECIAL ceremony was held on Sunday to mark the 30th anniversary of the twinning link between Dumfries and Gifhorn in Germany.
The event at the Plainstanes saw members of the Nithsdale Twinning Association, Friends of Gifhorn, the council’s Nithsdale Area Committee and former Provosts of Dumfries along with the mayor of Gifhorn and other invited guests to witness the signing of a charter, pledging to maintain and development the link.
There were performances from Dumfries Town Band and bagpipers and the Gifhorn flag was raised on the Midsteeple by uniformed fire fighters from both communities.
The four signatories of the charter are clear on the positive benefits for the twinning link, recognising achievements to-date and the opportunities for the future. Provost of Dumfries Maureen Johnstone said: “I am delighted to host this event and be part of the anniversary celebrations. It is always a pleasure for the town of Dumfries to host our Gifhorn visitors.”
Kenny Johnstone, convener of the Nithsdale Twinning Association, added: “I think one reason why the twinning has lasted so long is the warmth of the welcome that each of the towns gives their visitors. There is a great deal of kindness shown by the individuals and the organisations in both towns – people are invited into homes as well as the business element – and that has forged strong bonds.”
Meanwhile, Gifhorn’s Mayor Matthias Nerlich commented: “We are delighted to be here to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the twinning link with the town of Dumfries. Over these many years we have enjoyed exchanges of sports teams, cultural groups and young people. This has helped with our local economies and tourism as well as giving people an international perspective – and of course many friendships. We hope that this link will continue for many more years in the future.”
