2026

{“type”:”elementor”,”siteurl”:”https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk/wp-json/”,”elements”:[{“id”:”7b56a71″,”elType”:”widget”,”isInner”:false,”isLocked”:false,”settings”:{“editor”:”<h1> 2026</h1><h1>Rennes</h1><h2>Opera Robinson Crusoe by Offenbach</h2>There will be a worldwide broadcast of the Opera Robinson Crusoe by Offenbach on 6th November 2026 at 5.00 for 5.30 at the Exeter University Campus Cinema. Devonshire House, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4PZAdmission is free and it is open to all. Booking is necessary though<a href=\”https://www.exeter.ac.uk/v8media/aboutus/visitus/streatham-campus-map.pdf\”>https://www.exeter.ac.uk/v8media/aboutus/visitus/streatham-campus-map.pdf</a>Book here:<a href=\”https://fixr.co/event/robinson-crusoe-worldwide-broadcast-tickets-855645078\”>Campus Cinema | FIXR</a> <h1 style=\”text-align: center;\”>Rennes – Exeter Anniversary Art Project (Exeter-Rennes Press Release)</h1>2026 is the 70th anniversary of the twinning agreement between the cities of Exeter and Rennes in France. As part of the celebration of this long relationship the City of Rennes has gained the support of the British Embassy in France for a community arts project involving artists from Exeter working together with art organisations in Rennes.Two artists from Exeter – Lynda Powney and Vanessa Cecil, both members of CROW (Creative Older Women) in Exeter – have been commissioned by Rennes’ International and European Department to spend time in the city in February working with the French artists involved. The artists in Rennes come from two art groups in that city – ‘La Loupiote’ and the ‘Collectif Quartier en Couleur’. During their visit to Rennes the artists will be involved with creative workshops with young people form the community around Rennes’ Rue d’Exeter. They will be creating and sharing images of life in Exeter and life in Rennes, ultimately resulting in a panel depicting this to be installed in the Rue d’Exeter. In addition there will be a published report of the project, reflecting the workshops and some of the images created, which will be published in French and in English for use in both cities.In May members of Exeter Twinning Circle will be visiting Rennes, and will be able to see the early fruits of this project. Members of the Rennes twinning association will be making a return visit to Exeter in September. Exeter Twinning Circle hopes that there will be a renewal of the agreement between the two cities, restating both cities’ commitment to the promotion of understanding, respect and friendship first established in 1956.9 January 2026For further information please contact Graham Morris, Exeter Twinning Circle (Rennes) <a href=\”mailto:ETC.Rennes@icloud.com\”>ETC.Rennes@icloud.com</a>Exeter Twinning Circle can be found on Facebook and at <a href=\”https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk\”>https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk</a>——————————-<h1 style=\”text-align: center;\”>Ever wondered what it’s like in Exeter’s sister city in France?</h1> Way back in 1955 Exeter signed an official accord with the city of Rennes, capital of Brittany in France. The cities became twinned, and have maintained close links ever since. Ten years later the city of Bad Homburg in Germany formed a similar agreement with Exeter, and more recently Terracina inn Italy has been added to our family of ‘sister’ cities.Exeter Twinning Circle was established to maintain the social and cultural links with our twins, and 2026 will be the 70th anniversary of our links with Rennes. The twinning circles in both cities are busy planning a year of celebration, with events to mark the special nature of our relationship. Already plans have been laid for a visit from Exeter to Rennes next May, and a return visit from our friends in Rennes to our city next September.If you would like to find out more about Rennes, to meet some of the French people who live there, or just to take part in the events when the Rennais come to Devon, then please get in touch with the Exeter Twinning Circle.The party from Exeter plan to travel to Rennes via the overnight ferry from Plymouth to Roscoff departing Tuesday 26th May 2026. We will return on Sunday 31st May. The twinning circle would welcome new members, and invite any who are interested to join us for this visit. Accommodation in Rennes is usually provided by French families, where we try to match the ages and interests of participants. It is expected that participants reciprocate with accommodation if possible when the Rennais twinners come to Exeter. The principal expense for participants is basically the cost of travel, which is expected to be around £350 per couple (with a cabin on the overnight crossing) or around £250 for a solo traveller. Rennes is a fascinating city, with a great deal of medieval history and a delightful historic quarter. It has also developed good modern facilities and architecture, and has many interesting sights and places to visit. If you are interested in joining us, please get in touch. If you wish to express an interest in joining the visit to Rennes in May please let us know as soon as possible.In the first instance, please contact our secretary by emailing <a href=\”mailto:secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk\”>secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk</a> or visit our website <a href=\”https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk\”>https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk</a> . We can also be found on Facebook<hr /> NEW YEAR PARTYFriday 16th January 2026 7pm-9.30pmStLuke’s Church Hall1 Countess Wear Road EX2 4NXThere is a small church car park with extra on street parking. (near the Tally Ho pub)A Quiz with a difference! David Force is returning by popular demand – using his vast collection of antiquities with another unusual twist.We will provide soup and puddings. If you fancy some wine or beer please bring your own. Cost will be £12.50 per member and friends. Do bring them! We do need to know how many we are catering for so please fill in the attachment below.We would love you to come so . Please do a bank transfer then please email me with names coming (and any allergies) and a phone number. My email address is: <a href=\”mailto:secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk\”>secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk</a>Direct Bank Payment – our account details are: LLOYDS BANK Sort code 30-96-26 ~Account: 59284760 Ref: NYP/Your name REPLY SLIPName(s) ………………………………………………………………………………Tel: no: …………………………………………..Please reserve …….. member places, at £12.50 per member and …….friends. Direct Bank Payment our account details are LLOYDS BANK Sort code 30-96-26 ~Account: 59284760 Ref: NYP/Your nameIf you have any allergies, please list them here …………………………….Do you require a lift? …… Can you give a lift?____________________________________________<h1>2025</h1> Sixty Years Young, and Still Going StrongIn late April of this year, the Exeter Twinning Circle was delighted to welcome a group of visitors from Bad Homburg, to celebrate the sixtieth anniversary of the twinning link between the two cities.Our German friends brought the fine weather with them. The sun shone every day from Tuesday 29 April, when they arrived, until Monday 5 May, when they left – ideal conditions for the informal garden party that was held in Beryl Whidden’s garden on the Tuesday evening.Alexander Hetjes, Bad Homburg’s Oberbürgermeister (Mayor), and his colleague, Ralf Gehrsitz (head of the city’s administration), took part in the visit for the first two days. Wednesday’s programme started with a meeting in the Guildhall between Herr Hetjes and Herr Gehrsitz and the Leader of Exeter City Council, Councillor Phil Bialyk, with Exeter’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Kevin Mitchell, and the Council’s Chief Executive, Bindu Arjoon, also present.This was followed by a reception in the Guildhall, given by the Lord Mayor for Herr Hetjes and all the German visitors, their Exeter hosts and others involved in twinning. Both the Lord Mayor and the Oberbürgermeister spoke warmly of their support for the link between the two cities.Then there was a chance to enjoy the sunshine as Jane Chappell guided the visitors and their hosts around Northernhay Gardens. Jane’s explanations of the remarkable history of the Gardens were skilfully translated into German by Max Goodison.But Wednesday’s programme was not finished. In the afternoon, Professor Ulrike Zitzlsperger welcomed the group to the Modern Languages Department of the University of Exeter, and gave a talk about the teaching of German to undergraduates. It was fascinating to hear how German teaching today covers not only language and literature, but also wider cultural aspects, such as art and cinema.On Thursday there was a group visit to Teignmouth, where we were guided through the streets, and the history, of the town by Lesley McGinn. A perfect day “to be beside the seaside” – and, once the tour was completed, to take the ferry across the Teign estuary to Shaldon. Most of us ate lunch “al fresco” (and no-one lost food to the marauding seagulls!).Everyone came together again on Friday evening, for a celebration supper at the Rougemont Hotel. We were pleased to welcome the Lord Mayor as our guest, and to hear the re-affirmation of the ties of friendship in the short speeches made by the Lord Mayor, by Werner Voigt, of Bad Homburg’s twinning association, and by Sarah Branton, Chair of the Exeter Twinning Circle.On Saturday, hosts, guests and other friends travelled by coach to see the Valley of Rocks, Lynton and Lynmouth. It was good to introduce our visitors to the wonderful landscape of North Devon.On Sunday, there was a chance to visit Sandy Bay, near Exmouth. The more energetic amongst the group could join Dave Cliffe on a walk back to Exmouth; the more reflective could choose to take a little longer over lunch, enjoying the view over the beach and sea below.Our friends from Bad Homburg returned home on Monday. Their time in Exeter will stay in our memory, as a week of happy reunions and enjoyable visits (and non-stop sunshine!).Please see the gallery for photos<h2 style=\”text-align: center;\”>BAD HOMBURG VISIT 2025 – 60th ANNIVERSARY -</h2><h2 style=\”text-align: center;\”>29th APRIL – 5th MAY2025 PROGRAMME</h2><h2> </h2>TUESDAY 29TH APRILBad Homburg Visitors expected to arrive in Exeter about lunchtime.18.00 Welcome Supper at Beryl’s for hosts and all guests from Bad Homburg. Free parking on the road.WEDNESDAY 30 APRIL11.00 Lord Mayors Reception with Mayor Alexander Hertjes, Mayor of Bad Homburg, Herr Ralf Gehrsitz (Head of Bad Homburg Central Administration) Phil Bialyk and the Bad Homburg Twinners. All guests, hosts, and ETC members welcome.12.00 Guided walk around Northernhay Gardens Exeter, (one of the oldest public gardens in England still used, dating from the 1600s, led by Jane.15.30 Presentation by Professor Ulrike Zitzlsperger, Associate Professor of German, Queens Building, Queens Drive, Exeter University EX4 4QH16.15 FREE rest of day and evening with hosts. THURSDAY 1ST MAY Teignmouth and Shaldon – guided walk and ferry -scenic coastlineFRIDAY 2nd MayFREE day with hosts18.30 Dinner and Reception at Mercure Exeter Rougemont Hotel, EX4 3SP SATURDAY 3rd MAY9.00 Coach visit to North Devon. SUNDAY 4th MAY11.15 MEET: EXMOUTH – OPEN TOP BUS from Exmouth to Sandy BayVARIOUS CHOICES. MONDAY 5TH MAYBAD HOMBURG VISITORS DEPART EXETER For further information: phone Paul 07962019679 or Beryl 07971108846or email: secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-<h1 style=\”text-align: center;\”>AGM 2025</h1>ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND LUNCH to be held onFRIDAY 14th MARCH 2025 at 12 NOON Please find links below: <a href=\”https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ETC-Website_Agenda-AGM-2025-1.docx\”>ETC Website_Agenda AGM 2025 (1)</a><a href=\”https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ETC-Website_-DEVON-HOTEL_Lunch_Parking.docx\”>ETC Website_ DEVON HOTEL_Lunch_Parking</a> 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“,”_border_hover_transition”:{“unit”:”px”,”size”:””,”sizes”:[]},”_mask_switch”:””,”_mask_shape”:”circle”,”_mask_image”:{“url”:””,”id”:””,”size”:””},”_mask_image_tablet”:{“url”:””,”id”:””,”size”:””},”_mask_image_mobile”:{“url”:””,”id”:””,”size”:””},”_mask_size”:”contain”,”_mask_size_tablet”:””,”_mask_size_mobile”:””,”_mask_size_scale”:{“unit”:”%”,”size”:100,”sizes”:[]},”_mask_size_scale_tablet”:{“unit”:”px”,”size”:””,”sizes”:[]},”_mask_size_scale_mobile”:{“unit”:”px”,”size”:””,”sizes”:[]},”_mask_position”:”center center”,”_mask_position_tablet”:””,”_mask_position_mobile”:””,”_mask_position_x”:{“unit”:”%”,”size”:0,”sizes”:[]},”_mask_position_x_tablet”:{“unit”:”px”,”size”:””,”sizes”:[]},”_mask_position_x_mobile”:{“unit”:”px”,”size”:””,”sizes”:[]},”_mask_position_y”:{“unit”:”%”,”size”:0,”sizes”:[]},”_mask_position_y_tablet”:{“unit”:”px”,”size”:””,”sizes”:[]},”_mask_position_y_mobile”:{“unit”:”px”,”size”:””,”sizes”:[]},”_mask_repeat”:”no-repeat”,”_mask_repeat_tablet”:””,”_mask_repeat_mobile”:””,”hide_desktop”:””,”hide_tablet”:””,”hide_mobile”:””},”defaultEditSettings”:{“defaultEditRoute”:”content”},”interactions”:{},”elements”:[],”widgetType”:”text-editor”,”htmlCache”:”\t\t<div class=\”elementor-widget-container\”>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\”elementor-text-editor elementor-clearfix elementor-inline-editing\” data-elementor-setting-key=\”editor\” data-elementor-inline-editing-toolbar=\”advanced\”>\n\t\t\t\t<h1> 2026</h1><h1>Rennes</h1><h2>Opera Robinson Crusoe by Offenbach</h2>There will be a worldwide broadcast of the Opera Robinson Crusoe by Offenbach on 6th November 2026 at 5.00 for 5.30 at the Exeter University Campus Cinema. Devonshire House, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4PZAdmission is free and it is open to all. Booking is necessary though<a href=\”https://www.exeter.ac.uk/v8media/aboutus/visitus/streatham-campus-map.pdf\”>https://www.exeter.ac.uk/v8media/aboutus/visitus/streatham-campus-map.pdf</a>Book here:<a href=\”https://fixr.co/event/robinson-crusoe-worldwide-broadcast-tickets-855645078\”>Campus Cinema | FIXR</a> <h1 style=\”text-align: center;\”>Rennes – Exeter Anniversary Art Project (Exeter-Rennes Press Release)</h1>2026 is the 70th anniversary of the twinning agreement between the cities of Exeter and Rennes in France. As part of the celebration of this long relationship the City of Rennes has gained the support of the British Embassy in France for a community arts project involving artists from Exeter working together with art organisations in Rennes.Two artists from Exeter – Lynda Powney and Vanessa Cecil, both members of CROW (Creative Older Women) in Exeter – have been commissioned by Rennes’ International and European Department to spend time in the city in February working with the French artists involved. The artists in Rennes come from two art groups in that city – ‘La Loupiote’ and the ‘Collectif Quartier en Couleur’. During their visit to Rennes the artists will be involved with creative workshops with young people form the community around Rennes’ Rue d’Exeter. They will be creating and sharing images of life in Exeter and life in Rennes, ultimately resulting in a panel depicting this to be installed in the Rue d’Exeter. In addition there will be a published report of the project, reflecting the workshops and some of the images created, which will be published in French and in English for use in both cities.In May members of Exeter Twinning Circle will be visiting Rennes, and will be able to see the early fruits of this project. Members of the Rennes twinning association will be making a return visit to Exeter in September. Exeter Twinning Circle hopes that there will be a renewal of the agreement between the two cities, restating both cities’ commitment to the promotion of understanding, respect and friendship first established in 1956.9 January 2026For further information please contact Graham Morris, Exeter Twinning Circle (Rennes) <a href=\”mailto:ETC.Rennes@icloud.com\”>ETC.Rennes@icloud.com</a>Exeter Twinning Circle can be found on Facebook and at <a href=\”https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk\”>https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk</a>——————————-<h1 style=\”text-align: center;\”>Ever wondered what it’s like in Exeter’s sister city in France?</h1> Way back in 1955 Exeter signed an official accord with the city of Rennes, capital of Brittany in France. The cities became twinned, and have maintained close links ever since. Ten years later the city of Bad Homburg in Germany formed a similar agreement with Exeter, and more recently Terracina inn Italy has been added to our family of ‘sister’ cities.Exeter Twinning Circle was established to maintain the social and cultural links with our twins, and 2026 will be the 70th anniversary of our links with Rennes. The twinning circles in both cities are busy planning a year of celebration, with events to mark the special nature of our relationship. Already plans have been laid for a visit from Exeter to Rennes next May, and a return visit from our friends in Rennes to our city next September.If you would like to find out more about Rennes, to meet some of the French people who live there, or just to take part in the events when the Rennais come to Devon, then please get in touch with the Exeter Twinning Circle.The party from Exeter plan to travel to Rennes via the overnight ferry from Plymouth to Roscoff departing Tuesday 26th May 2026. We will return on Sunday 31st May. The twinning circle would welcome new members, and invite any who are interested to join us for this visit. Accommodation in Rennes is usually provided by French families, where we try to match the ages and interests of participants. It is expected that participants reciprocate with accommodation if possible when the Rennais twinners come to Exeter. The principal expense for participants is basically the cost of travel, which is expected to be around £350 per couple (with a cabin on the overnight crossing) or around £250 for a solo traveller. Rennes is a fascinating city, with a great deal of medieval history and a delightful historic quarter. It has also developed good modern facilities and architecture, and has many interesting sights and places to visit. If you are interested in joining us, please get in touch. If you wish to express an interest in joining the visit to Rennes in May please let us know as soon as possible.In the first instance, please contact our secretary by emailing <a href=\”mailto:secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk\”>secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk</a> or visit our website <a href=\”https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk\”>https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk</a> . We can also be found on Facebook<hr /> NEW YEAR PARTYFriday 16th January 2026 7pm-9.30pmStLuke’s Church Hall1 Countess Wear Road EX2 4NXThere is a small church car park with extra on street parking. (near the Tally Ho pub)A Quiz with a difference! David Force is returning by popular demand – using his vast collection of antiquities with another unusual twist.We will provide soup and puddings. If you fancy some wine or beer please bring your own. Cost will be £12.50 per member and friends. Do bring them! We do need to know how many we are catering for so please fill in the attachment below.We would love you to come so . Please do a bank transfer then please email me with names coming (and any allergies) and a phone number. My email address is: <a href=\”mailto:secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk\”>secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk</a>Direct Bank Payment – our account details are: LLOYDS BANK Sort code 30-96-26 ~Account: 59284760 Ref: NYP/Your name REPLY SLIPName(s) ………………………………………………………………………………Tel: no: …………………………………………..Please reserve …….. member places, at £12.50 per member and …….friends. Direct Bank Payment our account details are LLOYDS BANK Sort code 30-96-26 ~Account: 59284760 Ref: NYP/Your nameIf you have any allergies, please list them here …………………………….Do you require a lift? …… Can you give a lift?____________________________________________<h1>2025</h1> Sixty Years Young, and Still Going StrongIn late April of this year, the Exeter Twinning Circle was delighted to welcome a group of visitors from Bad Homburg, to celebrate the sixtieth anniversary of the twinning link between the two cities.Our German friends brought the fine weather with them. The sun shone every day from Tuesday 29 April, when they arrived, until Monday 5 May, when they left – ideal conditions for the informal garden party that was held in Beryl Whidden’s garden on the Tuesday evening.Alexander Hetjes, Bad Homburg’s Oberbürgermeister (Mayor), and his colleague, Ralf Gehrsitz (head of the city’s administration), took part in the visit for the first two days. Wednesday’s programme started with a meeting in the Guildhall between Herr Hetjes and Herr Gehrsitz and the Leader of Exeter City Council, Councillor Phil Bialyk, with Exeter’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Kevin Mitchell, and the Council’s Chief Executive, Bindu Arjoon, also present.This was followed by a reception in the Guildhall, given by the Lord Mayor for Herr Hetjes and all the German visitors, their Exeter hosts and others involved in twinning. Both the Lord Mayor and the Oberbürgermeister spoke warmly of their support for the link between the two cities.Then there was a chance to enjoy the sunshine as Jane Chappell guided the visitors and their hosts around Northernhay Gardens. Jane’s explanations of the remarkable history of the Gardens were skilfully translated into German by Max Goodison.But Wednesday’s programme was not finished. In the afternoon, Professor Ulrike Zitzlsperger welcomed the group to the Modern Languages Department of the University of Exeter, and gave a talk about the teaching of German to undergraduates. It was fascinating to hear how German teaching today covers not only language and literature, but also wider cultural aspects, such as art and cinema.On Thursday there was a group visit to Teignmouth, where we were guided through the streets, and the history, of the town by Lesley McGinn. A perfect day “to be beside the seaside” – and, once the tour was completed, to take the ferry across the Teign estuary to Shaldon. Most of us ate lunch “al fresco” (and no-one lost food to the marauding seagulls!).Everyone came together again on Friday evening, for a celebration supper at the Rougemont Hotel. We were pleased to welcome the Lord Mayor as our guest, and to hear the re-affirmation of the ties of friendship in the short speeches made by the Lord Mayor, by Werner Voigt, of Bad Homburg’s twinning association, and by Sarah Branton, Chair of the Exeter Twinning Circle.On Saturday, hosts, guests and other friends travelled by coach to see the Valley of Rocks, Lynton and Lynmouth. It was good to introduce our visitors to the wonderful landscape of North Devon.On Sunday, there was a chance to visit Sandy Bay, near Exmouth. The more energetic amongst the group could join Dave Cliffe on a walk back to Exmouth; the more reflective could choose to take a little longer over lunch, enjoying the view over the beach and sea below.Our friends from Bad Homburg returned home on Monday. Their time in Exeter will stay in our memory, as a week of happy reunions and enjoyable visits (and non-stop sunshine!).Please see the gallery for photos<h2 style=\”text-align: center;\”>BAD HOMBURG VISIT 2025 – 60th ANNIVERSARY –</h2><h2 style=\”text-align: center;\”>29th APRIL – 5th MAY2025 PROGRAMME</h2><h2> </h2>TUESDAY 29TH APRILBad Homburg Visitors expected to arrive in Exeter about lunchtime.18.00 Welcome Supper at Beryl’s for hosts and all guests from Bad Homburg. Free parking on the road.WEDNESDAY 30 APRIL11.00 Lord Mayors Reception with Mayor Alexander Hertjes, Mayor of Bad Homburg, Herr Ralf Gehrsitz (Head of Bad Homburg Central Administration) Phil Bialyk and the Bad Homburg Twinners. All guests, hosts, and ETC members welcome.12.00 Guided walk around Northernhay Gardens Exeter, (one of the oldest public gardens in England still used, dating from the 1600s, led by Jane.15.30 Presentation by Professor Ulrike Zitzlsperger, Associate Professor of German, Queens Building, Queens Drive, Exeter University EX4 4QH16.15 FREE rest of day and evening with hosts. THURSDAY 1ST MAY Teignmouth and Shaldon – guided walk and ferry -scenic coastlineFRIDAY 2nd MayFREE day with hosts18.30 Dinner and Reception at Mercure Exeter Rougemont Hotel, EX4 3SP SATURDAY 3rd MAY9.00 Coach visit to North Devon. SUNDAY 4th MAY11.15 MEET: EXMOUTH – OPEN TOP BUS from Exmouth to Sandy BayVARIOUS CHOICES. MONDAY 5TH MAYBAD HOMBURG VISITORS DEPART EXETER For further information: phone Paul 07962019679 or Beryl 07971108846or email: secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-<h1 style=\”text-align: center;\”>AGM 2025</h1>ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND LUNCH to be held onFRIDAY 14th MARCH 2025 at 12 NOON Please find links below: <a href=\”https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ETC-Website_Agenda-AGM-2025-1.docx\”>ETC Website_Agenda AGM 2025 (1)</a><a href=\”https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ETC-Website_-DEVON-HOTEL_Lunch_Parking.docx\”>ETC Website_ DEVON HOTEL_Lunch_Parking</a> \t\t\t\t\t</div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t</div>\n\t\t”,”editSettings”:{“defaultEditRoute”:”content”,”panel”:{“activeTab”:”content”,”activeSection”:”section_editor”}}}]}

EXETER TWINNING CIRCLE SIGNS PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT WITH BRITTANY FERRIES

As of January 2026 members will benefit from the following discounts:

10% discount for your members’ family trips, outside of the exchanges organised by the Twinning Committee, with their vehicle or on foot (Excluding on board accommodation).

5% discount on the public rate for the Twinning Committee’s foot passenger trips (from 10 or more people, excluding on board accommodation).

10% discount on the public group rate for the Twinning Committee’s trips by coach. (Excluding on board accommodation).

For information on how to access the discount for members’ family trips please contact the secretary.

Herewith link to original notice of

ETC/Brittany Ferries partnership: Website notice

Rennes – Exeter Anniversary Art Project

2026 is the 70th anniversary of the twinning agreement between the cities of Exeter and Rennes in France. As part of the celebration of this long relationship the City of Rennes has gained the support of the British Embassy in France for a community arts project involving artists from Exeter working together with art organisations in Rennes.

Two artists from Exeter – Lynda Powney and Vanessa Cecil, both members of CROW (Creative Older Women) in Exeter – have been commissioned by Rennes’ International and European Department to spend time in the city in February working with the French artists involved. The artists in Rennes come from two art groups in that city – ‘La Loupiote’ and the ‘Collectif Quartier en Couleur’.

During their visit to Rennes the artists will be involved with creative workshops with young people form the community around Rennes’ Rue d’Exeter. They will be creating and sharing images of life in Exeter and life in Rennes, ultimately resulting in a panel depicting this to be installed in the Rue d’Exeter. In addition there will be a published report of the project, reflecting the workshops and some of the images created, which will be published in French and in English for use in both cities.

In May members of Exeter Twinning Circle will be visiting Rennes, and will be able to see the early fruits of this project. Members of the Rennes twinning association will be making a return visit to Exeter in September. Exeter Twinning Circle hopes that there will be a renewal of the agreement between the two cities, restating both cities’ commitment to the promotion of understanding, respect and friendship first established in 1956.

9 January 2026

For further information please contact Graham Morris, Exeter Twinning Circle (Rennes) ETC.Rennes@icloud.com

Exeter-Rennes Press Release:

Ever wondered what it’s like in Exeter’s sister city in France?

Way back in 1955 Exeter signed an official accord with the city of Rennes, capital of Brittany in France. The cities became twinned, and have maintained close links ever since. Ten years later the city of Bad Homburg in Germany formed a similar agreement with Exeter, and more recently Terracina inn Italy has been added to our family of ‘sister’ cities.

Exeter Twinning Circle was established to maintain the social and cultural links with our twins, and 2026 will be the 70^th anniversary of our links with Rennes. The twinning circles in both cities are busy planning a year of celebration, with events to mark the special nature of our relationship. Already plans have been laid for a visit from Exeter to Rennes next May, and a return visit from our friends in Rennes to our city next September.

If you would like to find out more about Rennes, to meet some of the French people who live there, or just to take part in the events when the Rennais come to Devon, then please get in touch with the Exeter Twinning Circle.

The party from Exeter plan to travel to Rennes via the overnight ferry from Plymouth to Roscoff departing Tuesday 26^th May 2026. We will return on Sunday 31^st May. The twinning circle would welcome new members, and invite any who are interested to join us for this visit. Accommodation in Rennes is usually provided by French families, where we try to match the ages and interests of participants. It is expected that participants reciprocate with accommodation if possible when the Rennais twinners come to Exeter. The principal expense for participants is basically the cost of travel, which is expected to be around £350 per couple (with a cabin on the overnight crossing) or around £250 for a solo traveller.

Rennes is a fascinating city, with a great deal of medieval history and a delightful historic quarter. It has also developed good modern facilities and architecture, and has many interesting sights and places to visit. If you are interested in joining us, please get in touch. If you wish to express an interest in joining the visit to Rennes in May please let us know as soon as possible.

In the first instance, please contact our secretary by emailing secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk or visit our website https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk . We can also be found on Facebook

————————————-

NEW YEAR PARTY

Friday 16th January 2026 7pm-9.30pm

StLuke’s Church Hall

1 Countess Wear Road EX2 4NX

Please see ‘Events’ for details

2025

BAD HOMBURG VISIT 2025 – 60th ANNIVERSARY –

29th APRIL – 5th MAY 2025 PROGRAMME

TUESDAY 29TH APRIL

Bad Homburg Visitors expected to arrive in Exeter about lunchtime.

18.00 Welcome Supper at Beryl’s for hosts and all guests from Bad Homburg. Free parking on the road.

WEDNESDAY 30 APRIL

11.00 Lord Mayors Reception with Mayor Alexander Hertjes, Mayor of Bad Homburg, Herr Ralf Gehrsitz (Head of Bad Homburg Central Administration) Phil Bialyk and the Bad Homburg Twinners. All guests, hosts, and ETC members welcome.

12.00 Guided walk around Northernhay Gardens Exeter, (one of the oldest public gardens in England still used, dating from the 1600s, led by Jane.

15.30 Presentation by Professor Ulrike Zitzlsperger, Associate Professor of German, Queens Building, Queens Drive, Exeter University EX4 4QH

16.15 FREE rest of day and evening with hosts.

THURSDAY 1ST MAY

Teignmouth and Shaldon – guided walk and ferry -scenic coastline

FRIDAY 2nd May

FREE day with hosts

18.30 Dinner and Reception at Mercure Exeter Rougemont Hotel, EX4 3SP

SATURDAY 3rd MAY

9.00 Coach visit to North Devon.

SUNDAY 4th MAY

11.15 MEET: EXMOUTH – OPEN TOP BUS from Exmouth to Sandy Bay

VARIOUS CHOICES.

MONDAY 5TH MAY

BAD HOMBURG VISITORS DEPART EXETER

For further information: phone Paul 07962019679 or Beryl 07971108846

or email: secretary@exetertwinningcircle.org.uk

———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

AGM 2025

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND LUNCH to be held on

FRIDAY 14th MARCH 2025 at 12 NOON

Please find links below:

ETC Website_Agenda AGM 2025 (1)

ETC Website_ DEVON HOTEL_Lunch_Parking

—————————–

Please click on the link to see the poster for the New Year Party on the 11th January:

New year Party 2025 (1)

2024

August 2024 Newsletter

Please click here to see the August 2024 Newsletter

Incoming Visit from Terracina

The Italians are coming!

We are expecting an incoming visit from Terracina from13th to 18th July. More details to follow…

May 2024 Newsletter – Visit from Rennes

To view the newsletter for May 2024 with details and photos of the incoming visit from Rennes, please click on this link:

https://exetertwinningcircle.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ETC-Newsletter-May-2024.pdf

To view the programme for the forthcoming visit from Rennes, from 14th to 19th April, please click on the link below

Rennes Visit 2024 – Programme

The Twinning Circle Annual General Meeting took place at the Devon Motel, Matford on Friday 24th Feb, 2024.
The Lord Mayor attended and a fine lunch was enjoyed by all.

EXETER TWINNING CIRCLE

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND LUNCH

FRIDAY 23RD FEBRUARY 2024 AT THE DEVON HOTEL, MATFORD,

EXETER EX2 8XU.

Please assemble from 11.45am. The meeting will start promptly at 12.15pm followed by lunch at 1pm at tables of 10 in the Restaurant. We have had very few opportunities for us to get together this past year. We would like to see you all at the AGM Lunch and attached is a form for you to book your place at the lunch. The meeting will be in the Victoria Suite, upstairs, and lunch will be at tables of 10 downstairs in the restaurant.

An agenda etc will follow shortly.

Happy New Year to you all,

Beryl Whidden
Secretary

2023

November

To see the November Newsletter, please click on the link below:

ETC Newsletter Nov 2023

September

GALA CONCERT AT EXETER CATHEDRAL – 15^TH JULY 2023 by Rosalind Beetham

The day before the Gala concert at Exeter Cathedral, I invited 25 of our German choir guests to a traditional English homemade afternoon tea, including cucumber sandwiches! We all had a delightful time despite the rain, which miraculously stopped during tea time, enabling us to get some fresh air and enjoy the beautiful Estuary views. Many new friendships were made and lively conversation filled the room, in true twinning fashion – definitely a memorable afternoon for all of us.

As a member of the Exeter Twinning Circle and a retired member of Exeter Festival Chorus, I looked forward with anticipation to the 30^th Anniversary concert of the Exeter Festival Chorus Choir, celebrated by a performance of the powerful and moving The Dream of Gerontius by Elgar. It was performed by 176 singers, including choirs from Bad Homburg and Hanau, youth and junior choirs from Exeter and all hosted by the Exeter Festival Chorus.

I was not disappointed. This was a sell-out concert in Exeter Cathedral and there was an excited buzz in the audience as we waited for the concert to begin. Amongst the dignitaries attending was Alexander Hetjes, the Mayor of Bad Homburg, who flew in especially just for the concert. Seeing many young children in the audience was a very pleasant surprise and a standing ovation at the end of the concert showed just how much the audience enjoyed it. For me it was one of those very special evenings, which will always make me smile when I think of it. In front of us were singers from different countries and of all ages, who were at one singing wonderful music together, purely for their enjoyment and to give pleasure to their audience.

Exeter Twinning Circle - linked with Rennes, Bad Homburg and Terracina