50 years of friendship

Rochdale's 'Friends of Tourcoing' at Les Amis de Rochdale in 2015

Rochdale's 'Friends of Tourcoing' are preparing to welcome their friends from Rochdale's French twin town, Les Amis de Rochdale, to celebrate 50 years of friendship since the first visit took place.

The visit takes place between Thursday 14 April and Sunday 17 April and a full programme has been organised but with lots of time where the families can relax and spend time with each other.

On arrival the visitors will be welcomed with a reception at Rochdale Town Hall at which the Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale will be there to greet them.

The events include a visit to Lancaster Castle and afterwards a lunch at The Midland Hotel in Morecambe.

On Saturday, there is a 'Fun Day at the Fire Station' which will be free of charge and although organised by Friends of Tourcoing and Fire station volunteers, the local community are welcome to attend.

Also, on the Saturday evening, a celebratory dinner will be held at Rochdale Town Hall where the Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale, the Deputy Mayor of Tourcoing, including the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Mr Sandiford, and other dignitaries from both towns, will be in attendance.

The Lancashire Fusiliers Corps of Drums will perform followed by Tom Collins who will provide music and entertainment throughout the evening. 

After the meal a celebratory cake, which has been designed and made by students from Hopwood Hall College, will be served.

The French families will be leaving on the Sunday.

Rochdale's 'Friends of Tourcoing' is a friendly, social, family orientated group which has twinned with Tourcoing in Northern France since 1966. Exchange visits with Les Amis de Rochdale are in alternate years, usually in April or May.

The visits are about fun and friendship and afford everyone a unique opportunity to experience each other’s customs, cultures and language.