Town has pretty French twin (From Stroud News and Journal)

Town has pretty French twin

STROUD has a twin town for the first time in its history after a delegation visited the stunning French commune of Saint Ismier.

Hundreds of French people watched Stroud mayor Kevin Cranston sign the twinning charter at a special ceremony during St Ismier's annual music festival.

Surrounded on all sides by the beautiful French Alps, St Ismier certainly impressed the visitors, which included three town councillors and more than 20 Stroud residents.

Steve Hill, chairman of the newly-formed twinning association French Connections, said: "It really is a stunningly beautiful location and it's clear that St Ismier is really excited about the possibilities that this new partnership offers.

"There are more than 40 associations in the town from choirs, environmental groups and karate clubs, to walking, dancing and a wide range of sports.

"The possibilities are endless."

Last month's visit followed two years of negotiations after Stroud was courted by two French towns in search of a twin.

St Ismier made the move after one of its councillors fell in love with the area while renting a holiday cottage near Minchinhampton 18 years ago.

Kevin Cranston added: "They certainly rolled out the red carpet for all of us, with some superb French hospitality and the chance to really get a taste for the town and the surrounding area."

Just eight miles from the Olympic city of Grenoble, St Ismier can trace its history back to the 18th Century. Today it is a popular residential area, with 6,000 residents, three primary schools, a secondary school and a library.

The town also boasts a picturesque church, large sports centre, weekly market and a 300-seater modern arts centre, along with a host of shops and restaurants.

It is now hoped that a French contingent will visit Stroud next July for the traditional countersigning of the twinning agreement.

Anyone interested in getting involved with French Connections can call Steve Hill on 07800 748814 or register their details with staff at the Stroud Internet Centre at the top of the town's High Street.