The weekend demonstrated that twinning is about more than official links between towns.
Lichfield welcomed visitors from France and Germany at the beginning of October for a weekend of heritage, culture and celebration, with a Beacon lighting providing a memorable finale.
Guests from Sainte-Foy-lès-Lyon in France and Limburg an der Lahn in Germany joined local residents and members of Lichfield’s twinning organisations for a programme showcasing the city and its international links.
Among the highlights was a tour of The Hub at St Mary’s historic tower, and a guided walk through the city. Visitors discovered some of Lichfield’s best-known landmarks while hearing more about the city’s history and heritage.
A Twinning Friendship Banquet was held on the Saturday (3 October), attended by the guests and their hosts with entertainment provided by the Lichfield Rock Choir and the mayors exchanging gifts.
On Sunday, the programme continued with Evensong at Lichfield Cathedral, giving guests the opportunity to experience one of the city’s most distinctive buildings.
The weekend concluded at the Garden of Remembrance, where the lighting of the Beacon provided a fitting and reflective finale.
Local volunteers and members of the twinning organisations played a key role in organising the visit, hosting guests and helping to deliver the programme.
The weekend demonstrated that twinning is about more than official links between towns. It provides opportunities for residents to meet people from other countries, exchange experiences and discover more about different cultures.
For Lichfield, it was also a chance to put its history, landmarks and hospitality on display, while continuing the long-standing links with Sainte-Foy-lès-Lyon and Limburg an der Lahn.
With three towns represented across the weekend, the visit provided a welcome celebration of Lichfield’s international connections and the people who keep them thriving.
