08/11/2025
Thursday 30th October 2025 saw the arrival of our French and German guests from Marquette-lez-Lille and Fredersdorf-Vogelsdorf, for a weekend of fun. They were impressed (as were we) with our new ‘welcome’ banner displayed outside the Town Hall. After an excellent welcome reception provided by Cllr Alison Snookes, Mayor of Sleaford, it was off to the homes of their hosts for a meal and no doubt one or two drinks, and a restful night’s sleep.
Friday saw the group visit Baytree Owl and Raptor Centre, where we were treated to a fantastic flying display of owls and other birds of prey. After lunch, the group had a very interesting visit to Ayscoughfee Hall Museum and Gardens. Then it was back to Sleaford for a brief rest and a spruce-up before the evening’s ‘Bring and Share’ get-together at the Riverside Church.
Saturday was a free day to spend as you wish with your guests. Many took advantage of the good weather and spent the day at Belton House, on a visit arranged by two of our stalwart members. Our visitors were all very impressed with the house and grounds and our younger guests thoroughly enjoyed the adventure playground. Then once again it was back to Sleaford for a spruce-up before attending the Gala Evening at Kesteven and Sleaford High School. To highlight Lincolnshire produce, we all enjoyed a fantastic meal of locally grown and sourced food. Entertainment was provided by an excellent live band - also locally-sourced!
Sunday saw the departure of the French and German groups. After the obligatory group photo, there was lots of hugging and fond farewells before they boarded their respective coaches for the journey home. As usual, the time went all too quickly but we haven’t got too long to wait, as they will all be back again in May 2026.
Our thanks for making the visit the success it was go to the Mayor of Sleaford and staff at Sleaford Town Hall, Josh at Castle Print, Ruth at the Art Shop & Open Studio, the staff (especially the catering staff) at Kesteven and Sleaford High School, the staff at Sleafordian Coaches and to our amazing host families. Your support is appreciated, always.
