Banbridge will be rolling out the red carpet on Thursday 9 May 2024 as it welcomes a delegation from the French town of Ruelle-sur-Touvre to celebrate the 30th anniversary of one of the borough’s longest and strongest international linkages.
The Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Margaret Tinsley will welcome distinguished guests from Ruelle-sur-Touvre to partake in a day long celebration marking this landmark event, including a Civic Reception, a tour of the town including the unveiling of a special 30th Anniversary bench in Solitude Park, round table discussions and presentations from officials of both towns plus the day will culminate with a wonderful celebratory event in the Southern Regional College Banbridge campus featuring a host of cultural music, song and dance.
Since the signing of the first Town Twinning Charter in May 1994, the link between the two towns has stood the test of time thanks to the commitment of Banbridge Twinning Association and the local community who have welcomed our French friends into their homes down through the years.
Many lifelong friendships have been forged, cultures shared and everlasting memories made through exchange trips organised for both the younger and older generation – providing mutually beneficial opportunities to learn about each other’s culture, language and way of life.
Speaking ahead of the historic anniversary the Lord Mayor said, “I am delighted to welcome our French friends from Ruelle-sur-Touvre to celebrate our continued twinning and commemorate the bond our two communities fondly share. I would also like to thank the Banbridge Twinning Association for their enduring commitment over the past three decades in ensuring the friendship between our two towns continues to grow and develop.”
To mark the occasion, members of the local Banbridge community are invited to help honour this wonderful achievement and enjoy the special celebratory event at the Southern Regional College Banbridge campus on Thursday 9 May 2024 from 7 – 9pm which will highlight the lasting legacy of the twinning and present a thoroughly exciting showcase of local cultural entertainment.
If you would like to attend the Banbridge – Ruelle-sur-Touvre Twinning Celebration event book your place at the link below. Tickets are free however as numbers are limited will be offered on a first come, first served basis. For further information email
