Author Archive: DDTA

Some of our Twinning friends in Dourdan have expressed surprise and concern over the Brexit vote.  Why, when relations between us are so warm, does Britain wish to leave the EU?  What are the implications for the relationship between Dunmow and Dourdan?

Obviously there are very different, conflicting opinions, in the UK and no doubt in Dunmow.  Yet it seems clear that no-one in Dunmow Twinning, however they voted, would wish to weaken (still less sever) ties with our Dourdan friends, with whom we have such a long and close relationship.  One has only to measure the time taken in fond goodbyes and adieux at the end of each of our visits to grasp the depth of this feeling.

Whilst in future there may be minor impediments to our events (eg. the need for pre-authorisation of travel) we are sure that the true spirit of Twinning will overcome these and permit us to maintain, and indeed enhance, the extraordinary closeness between us.  Vive le jumelage Dunmow – Dourdan.

The Chairman and Committee of Dunmow – Dourdan Twinning Association

On Sunday July 17th Dunmow Twinners gathered in the immaculate gardens of Crouches Farmhouse for our annual barbecue, thanks to the generosity of David and Patsy Beedle.  Everyone was welcomed with a glass of kir, a traditional French aperitif, before moving on to wine, beer or whatever took their fancy.

This year the weather did us proud, so that the shade offered by gazebos or the majestic walnut tree was most welcome.  Conversation flowed easily and our new members hopefully felt at ease.  (Some members were extremely impressed by the hosts’ fruit and vegetables.)

Burgers and bangers were beautifully cooked (mostly by mine host), and served with rolls and salad plus a variety of sauces.  Strawberries and cream were followed by cheese (a magnificent whole Brie, the remainder of which was auctioned off).

Our hosts performed brilliantly, and the committee all worked hard to make the day a real success.  Feedback was very positive, from all age groups.

On Thursday 26th May, 42 Twinners from Dunmow and surrounding villages boarded a Don’s coach for their alternate year visit to twin town Dourdan, 30 miles south-west of Paris. This was a special trip celebrating 25 years of the Dourdan link.

After a millpond ferry crossing the party arrived in early evening to be met by Dourdan hosts and whisked away for dinner at their homes. In a break with tradition, the following day was free for hosts to take guests to favourite haunts, eg. Chartres, Orleans or Paris. Everyone met up that evening for the anniversary dinner at a splendid new venue, with champagne and canapés being followed by melon and ham, a succulent beef main course, cheese and mille feuilles. Professional music was augmented by French and English songs from a group of Dunmow and Dourdan singers.

Saturday morning saw everyone on the road to the famous Loire valley, to visit the lovely chateau of Amboise, once the home of kings. Although much has been destroyed by later owners, what remains is beautiful. Its highlights (including the grave of Leonardo da Vinci) were delightfully portrayed by a young, knowledgeable and humorous guide – not the normal ponderous guiding style. After appreciating the lovely gardens in brilliant sunshine, the party adjourned for an excellent lunch under the castle walls.

The afternoon saw a tour of wine cellars in caves carved into the rocky banks of the Loire by builders seeking stone many centuries ago. The tour included tastings (white, red and dessert) and valuable tips on how to taste. The wine was excellent, so many Twinners added a case to their baggage.

On the final morning (Sunday) Dunmow Twinners were received by the Mayor of Dourdan in the impressive town hall. Short (thankfully!) speeches were followed by the traditional exchange of gifts between the towns. Then it was time for the usual prolonged farewells, clear evidence of the extraordinarily strong bonds of friendship that Twinning has created.