I’m writing this column from Germany as I’m in Salzgitter to mark the 50th anniversary of our twin town partnership.

I have just attended an emotional ceremony with our Mayor, Fay Howard, and Salzgitter’s Mayor, Frank Klingebiel, making great speeches setting out the value of the partnership.

From the outset, the twinning has fostered meaningful community engagement.

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Students, families, and young people have crossed borders, stayed in each other’s homes, and created genuine lasting friendships.

Reg Clarke’s remarkable 50 visits highlight the important human ties that have grown from this link.

These connections bring shared........

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