HEXHAM residents enjoyed a weekend of French hospitality. 

Guests from Hexham arrived in Noyon, France, on Friday, May 24 by coach and attended an official reception in the town hall the following morning, addressed by both mayors.

Hexham mayor Derek Kennedy and Sandrine Dauchelle marked 32 years of friendship and cooperation between the towns.

Hexham Courant: Derek Kennedy with Noyon mayor, Sandrine DauchelleDerek Kennedy with Noyon mayor, Sandrine Dauchelle (Image: Supplied)

There was also an opportunity for newcomers to Noyon to be taken around the historic town by their hosts.

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Hexham Courant: On top of the barge in Amiens on the Sunday afternoonOn top of the barge in Amiens on the Sunday afternoon (Image: Supplied)

In the evening, Hexham Village Band performed in 'Le Confluent' restaurant, which sits at the junction of two canals. Guests were invited by their hosts to a four-course buffet supper, which many enjoyed while sitting outside on the terrace.

Hexham Courant: Hosts and guests assemble for the dinner dance on the Sunday eveningHosts and guests assemble for the dinner dance on the Sunday evening (Image: Supplied)

The coach brought hosts and visitors to the city of Amiens for an afternoon cruise on board the 'Picardie' barge. Typical regional dishes were served as the boat glided along Amiens' ancient waterways, which are lined by privately owned 'floating gardens'. Many of the party later visited the magnificent cathedral of Amiens.

The final event was a dinner dance in the Chevalet building in the centre of the town, with music by the group M67 and Hexham Village Band.

The coach departed for Hexham, after a memorable weekend of French hospitality.

For more information, go to https://www.hexhamtowntwinning.co.uk/.