RESIDENTS from a French town enjoyed a taste of life in England as part of an exchange programme.

Cricklade was twinned with Sucé-sur-Erdre in 1990, since then residents from the two towns have took it in turns to visit each other each year.

This year guests from Sucé-sur-Erdre were welcomed into the homes of hosts from across the town, and then taken on activities throughout their visit which took place between June 27 and 29.

As part of their trip to Cricklade, the French enjoyed a welcoming party at the offices of Cricklade Town Council, and were taken on coach trips to Batsford Aboretum, Hook Norton Brewery, as well as attending a beer festival at the Red Lion pub on Sunday.

To help with any communication issues, organisers Cricklade Twinning Association (CTA) ensured several French speakers from Cricklade, such as Anabel Wallis, were on hand to translate for the guests.

They were also given a tour of the town courtesy of Clive Smith, the high bailiff of Cricklade Court Leet.

Jane Whinfrey, who was a host in the programme, said: “I think they had a really good time. There was a good range of ages in the group. They were a bit worried that they have to organise something along these lines next year in their town.”