Annette Wight, Twinning Officer, says: “This is a wonderful opportunity for local people to become involved in Cheltenham’s twinning and international activities and to gain an insight into German culture.
“Many people are coming to Cheltenham for the first time and do not have any contacts and I need over 16 new families to host people. We have couples, singles and families, from youngsters with their mum or dad, to an active 76 year old, all seeking homestays and wishing to make new friends! And people don’t have to be able to speak German as nearly all our visitors can speak English.’’
A number of the visitors have formed strong friendships from previous visits and will therefore be staying with their friends; some are staying in Cheltenham’s hotels and guest houses. Payment is not made for hosting vistors as there is the opportunity to visit Göttingen in two years’ time and stay over there free of charge with host families.
A full programme of events and activities has been arranged for the visitors and host families are also invited to participate. This year the programme includes a visit to Cardiff and St Fagan’s, Cheddar Gorge and Wells, as well as a tour of the Cotswolds. In Cheltenham tours of the town, parks and gardens will be organised, plus a welcome reception at CheltenhamLadiesCollege and an evening get-together for guests and hosts at DeanCloseSchool.
The Deputy Mayor and Councillors will be heading the delegation of 120 Göttingen residents.
An officer from Göttingen City Council will be exchanging information and knowledge with officers from Cheltenham’s recycling and street cleaning team
Garth Barnes, Chairman of the Twinning Association, says: “We are delighted that so many Göttingen people want to visit their twin town of Cheltenham and take part in this Göttingen festival. We urge local people to offer their spare rooms as accommodation and to become involved in what is always a very memorable week.’’
For further information, contact Annette Wight, Twinning Officer, 01242 264311, email Annette.wight@cheltenham.gov.uk or visit http://cheltenhamtwinning.wordpress.com/ to download the letter of information and Offer of Accommodation form.
