A LETTER of solidarity has been sent to the mayor of Gien, Malmesbury’s twinned town in France, on behalf of the town council, following the devastating shootings in Paris that saw 130 people die.

Malmesbury mayor John Gundry sent the letter to his opposite number in Gien, Christian Bouleau, expressing the council’s support at this difficult time.

Following the attacks on November 13 in the French capital, Mr Gundry asked to raise the idea of sending the letter at a town council meeting. The sentiment was echoed by other councillors at the time.

The proposal was discussed at the next available town council meeting, on Tuesday (24), and was supported by every member of the council present.

Cllr Gundry said he wanted to reach out to express the council’s “sympathy and solidarity with the citizens of Gien and their families at this tragic time”.

“Gien is the same distance south of Paris as we are west of London,” said Cllr Gundry.

“I felt if something like the attacks in Paris had happened in London, it would be likely that people from Malmesbury would have known people who were caught up in it.

“The letter was sent with the assistance and agreement of the Malmesbury and District Twinning Association.”

Roger Budgen, of Malmesbury Town Council, said: “A number of people on the council said wouldn’t it be a good idea.

“I think as everyone thoughts are with the French at this time, we thought it was a nice gesture to offer some sympathy and support with our twinned town. I’m sure they would do likewise.”

Gien is situated in north-central France and has been twinned with Malmesbury since 2000.