The first twinning entered into was with Bayeux (of Tapestry fame) in France. The links were formed in 1959 and came about because the Dorset Regiment were the first soldiers to enter the town in 1944 as the Second World War came to an end.
If you are interested in joining the Dorchester-Bayeux Society contact the Secretary -
Brian Bates
15 Garfield Avenue
Dorchester
Telephone: 01305 263824
Brian says "The Dorchester-Bayeux Society is Dorchester's oldest twinning group and in 2009 we celebrate our 50th anniversary.
New members are always welcome. You do not have to live in Dorchester to join, nor do you have to speak French; many of our existing members do not.
During the winter we meet every second Thursday evening in the month, at the Dorset Youth Association in Lübbecke Way. Our winter programme includes a series of interesting talks, covering many subjects, a Christmas social and our ever popular End of Season supper, in April. Unlike many societies our AGM is always well attended, possibly because it is followed by a wine tasting! As well as our meetings we have a French conversation class and a petanque group who meet on regular occasions.
The highlight of our year, of course, is our annual exchange with our friends in Bayeux. We visit each other on alternate years and many strong friendships have been made.
A warm welcome awaits you, so if you would like to join the Society please contact me on 01305 263824."
This photograph shows representatives from Bayeux and Dorchester laying a wreath at the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Bayeux.
If you would like more information about Bayeux visit http://www.mairie-bayeux.fr/
