International Twinning Visit

2016 was Evesham's year to host the annual International visit of the five clubs involved in our European twinning arrangement. Evesham hosted 31 Rotarians from our twinned clubs in Norway, Belgium, Germany and The Netherlands. 

It was a wonderful weekend with old and new friends from these clubs. Many of the Rotarians were hosted by our own members, while some stayed in local hotels or bed and breakfast as part of a longer stay in the UK.

On Friday evening a number of Evesham Rotarians hosted our guests for dinner, which meant that there were a few sore heads on Saturday morning when we all met to travel to Stratford upon Avon. We were all treated to a behind the scenes tour of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre which was fascinating even for the Evesham members! We then enjoyed a 2 hour cruise along the River Avon, though at one point we wondered whether we would have to walk back when we found ourselves broadside across the river unable to turn completely around because of the strong wind. The biggest cheer of the day was reserved for the member of the boat's crew who pushed us around with a large pole!

Saturday evening we all met at Beckford, where we were firstly entertained by Evesham Community Choir, and then enjoyed a meal together.There were the mandatory speeches, but all made in good spirit and fun.

While the majority of the group were given a tour of Evesham on Sunday morning (in sunshine!) the Presidents and senior members of the five clubs met to discuss International projects as well as sharing our experiences and good ideas. 

The clubs all agreed to fund a project at Ourside Youth Centre in Evesham as this year's project in Evesham. We are also considering a joint International project to help people in the world who are so much less fortunate than ourselves. More on that decision will follow later.

Following lunch in the rowing club we all bid farewell to our visitors, quite a sad occasion. We all made and in some cases renewed many friendships. 

Next year the Twinning visit will take place in The Netherlands.

More photos in our photo gallery.