MALMESBURY made a friend last week and the town should reap the rewards.

Bad Hersfeld in Germany became an official ‘friend’ of the north Wiltshire market town when representatives from both places signed an agreement.

At a time when Britain is distancing itself from the rest of the continent, it is reassuring to see cultural links like this being forged.

The agreement has been a long time in the making and has been a labour of love for representatives involved from each town, who deserve a well-earned pat on the back.

Bad Hersfeld was founded by a monk from Malmesbury, who helped bring Christianity to the country.

Now, it is hoped, more Germans will be encouraged to make the trip to the historic Wiltshire town, the benefits of which we will see for years to come.