Farnham has celebrated 25 years of twinning by reaffirming its friendship with the German town of Andernach.

Representatives from Andernach recently visited Farnham and attended a reception at Farnham Castle, which saw the deed of friendship reaffirmed by the Mayor of Farnham, Councillor John Ward and the Burgermeister Claus Peitz.

Mayor of Farnham, Councillor John Ward says: “The reception was a very joyful occasion. I was delighted to present our visitors with gifts, which I had chosen at an exhibition at the Farnham Potteries by Ceramicus. As England’s Craft Town, I knew I wanted to present attractive and locally made gifts that reflect our heritage. We were spoilt for choice but ending up choosing an ornemental plate for the town of Andernach and a decorative vase for the Burgermeister. On behalf of Andernach, the Burgermeister said he was very appreciative of the gifts and was impressed by the standard of workmanship.”

The visit by Farnham’s twin town concluded with a performance by the award-winning Andernach Stadtorchester at the Farnham Maltings. The Mayor of Farnham welcomed the guests in both English and German and the concert was compered in English by Sebastien Kleis the son of the orchestra’s conductor.

Councillor John Ward adds: “The concert was magnificent and was greatly enjoyed by all who attended. The band performed a programme of music themed around Africa which included compositions such as the soundtrack from Out of Africa and The Lion King. The conductor, Bertram Kleis explained that the African rhythm encourages people to join in and it is for this reason that they chose, what I believe, was a very befitting theme.”

Andernach has a very strong musical tradition and school children receive the opportunity to learn a musical instrument as part of their academic studies. Andernach Stadtorchester involves over 100 musicians and has given numerous concerts at home and abroad. Since 1993, the orchestra has been conducted by Bertram Kleis, a clarinetist in the German Army Band Koblenz. He has been awarded the title of conductor of the city of Andernach.

The Farnham-Andernach Friendship Association exists to promote friendship, cultural, educational, sporting and business links between the people of Farnham and Andernach.

The Association was formed in 1991 and is run by volunteers.

Anybody who is interested in making links with people in Farnham’s twin town or getting involved in future activities, should contact Penny Marriott at pp.marriott@gmail.com or call 01252 714489.

Farnham reaffirms its friendship with twin town of Andernach.

Andernach Stadtorchester