Days out in France, Switzerland and the Black Forest were all part of an amazing programme of outings laid on recently for members of the Bognor Regis Twinning Association by Bognor’s twin town, Weil am Rhein in southern Germany. With stunning weather throughout the 6 day visit, the first outing was to Mulhouse in France where the best car museum in Europe is situated. The museum houses the huge private car collection of the Schlumpf brothers, billionaires whose business eventually went bankrupt in the 1976 oil crisis. The collection was discovered and later opened to the public. A railway museum was also an alternative option to visit before exploring the town itself.

In Switzerland, a visit to Basle included a city tour along with a guided tour of the historic City Hall before time to enjoy the city more. The following day Bognor members were taken to the Black Forest for a very packed day, starting with a visit up Mount Hochblauen, where they were surprised with refreshments of wine and cake while enjoying views of the Jura mountains and the Alps! Then onto Badenweiler Castle and the nearby impressive remains of the Roman Baths and spa. The afternoon was spent at the Horticultural Garden Show in Neuenberg am Rhein.

In honour of all the Twinning visitors, a Civic Reception with buffet was given at the Weil am Rhein Town Hall one evening with speeches by the Town Mayors of Weil am Rhein and of Trebbin, and with Mrs Heather Perrott speaking on behalf of the Mayor of Bognor Regis.  Bonds Big Band, made up of students from the local music school, provided musical entertainment. On the very last evening the local scout group prepared truly excellent food for a dinner for all Twinning members and their hosts. Bognor members stayed either with hosts they already knew or those, taking part for the first time, were welcomed by new friends. Such an enjoyable and action-packed visit was over too soon. Fortunately, despite problems with air traffic and airports, the journey home went without a hitch.