Visit From Civray June 2022
On Thursday afternoon we all attended the Town Crier’s proclamation on the Town Square, followed by whatever hosts had in mind, many visited the art exhibition in the Methodists Church. After dinner in the evening, it was off to the beacon lighting next to the church.
Friday was carnival day, with the procession coming up Bridge Street and ending up on the Howdale where the IMPS motorcycle display team entertained us amongst others. Certainly, something different for the French to see.
The long-awaited visit from Civray to celebrate last year’s 45th anniversary finally got under way on Wednesday evening 1st June. The French guests arrived in Downham Market and were paired up with their hosts, two more, Deputy Mayor Emmanuel Brunet and his wife Pauline would arrive on Friday.
A civic reception was held by the Town Council in the Town Hall at Saturday lunch time, several speeches were presented, including those from The Town Mayor Cllr Pyatt, Emmanuel Brunet, (Deputy Mayor, Civray), Christine Nunn (Chairman Downham Market Twinning Club), and Michel Masse, (President Civray Twinning Club). A very good buffet lunch was provided by the Town Council.
In the evening a Dinner for members and guests was held at the Farmhouse at Fincham, (formerly Timbers) The food was good, but I personally was not impressed by the level of service. A painting was presented to the club by Michel Masse, President of the Civray Club.
Sunday was relatively free, we took our guests to a superb lunch at the Allium restaurant, (formerly Lloyds Bank). We had a short siesta in the afternoon followed by a barbecue at Belinda and Roger Gee’s. This included a glass of Fizzy Wine to celebrate the anniversary.
All too soon Monday morning came, the mini bus turned up and the French were gone, this had been our first visit for ages and went extremely well. We will be travelling to France on August 1st this year, do think about joining us.
Steve Nunn
