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50 members of GATA were guests on a four-day visit to Ouzouer 25th - 29th August 2005. 32 travelled by coach and the either went by air or were already in France on holiday. As usual were overwhelmed by the hospitality of our French hosts. The first day was a tour of Orléans. One of the highlights was going down under the main square and standing in what used to be the moat beneath the massive walls of the mediaeval city at the point where the drawbridge had been situated and admiring the excellent condition of the stone work. The next day was the first time a free day had been incorporated into the programme so that visitors and hosts could spend this day at a relaxed pace. Only at the end of the day did everyone meet for a buffet supper by the lake side with friendly contests such as a tug of war and an entertainment by an excellent choir. On the last day we visited a ' 13th century' castle which is under construction using only the materials and techniques from the 13th century. With the workers wearing clothes from the period we had the sense of really visiting the past, and everyone found this to be a memorable experience. Real friendships have developed in the eight years of GATA's existence and each visit continues to reinforce the warm relationship between the two communities. GATA welcomes new members,especially young families. Membership fees are very low. It is not necessary to speak French or to live in Great Ayton. Many of our members live in Stokesley and the surrounding villages and even Middlesbrough and Redcar. The Ouzouer - Great Ayton approach is much more informal and family -orientated than many twinning links organised through local councils. GATA believes that friendship and fun than councils and ceremonies, and we are particularly keen to involve young people as much as possible. Anyone wishing to join the Association is invited to contact the Chairman.

Great Ayton Twinning Association
Great Ayton, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Tel and Fax : +44 (1642) 722964

peter@great-ayton-twinning.co.uk
Webmaster: Peter Chandler