Glossop's twinning association is not letting the pandemic and restricted travel get in the way of retaining and strengthening their links with Bad Vilbel, their twin town in Germany. 

Covid may have prevented the regular visits, organised since the link was formed 1987, but the friendships forged during that time have continued with regular contact by social media texts, emails, and more recently Zoom. 

While many groups may have disappeared during the pandemic, the committee is keen to continue to drive the association forward and attract new people to become members of the organisation. 

They hold social and fundraising events, but the highlight is the exchange visits in alternate years which are usually five-day trips, staying in hotels or with hosts, visiting places of interest and community events and local restaurants. 

The twinning association helps people understand different languages, cultures, traditions, and ways of life, as well as establishing friendships with people of all ages. 

While most Germans can speak English, some Glossop members speak or are choosing to learn German.   

Bad Vilbel, like Glossop, is home to more than 30,000 residents. It is growing each year with people moving in due to its close proximity to Frankfurt, excellent infrastructure, public transport and road network. Every August sees the town host the largest fair in the region. 

While they may not be able to visit this year, members of the Glossop/Bad Vilbel Twinning Association will be holding a social event on August 1. 

Providing the weather is kind, members will be meeting in Manor Park Rose Garden for a bring-your-own picnic, due to Covid. 

If you are interested in getting involved or to find out more, contact association secretary Pat Tidmarsh email nortid@tiscali.co.uk or Chairman Peter Greenhalgh on 01457 861319.

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