Bridgnorth has been twinned with Thiers in the French Auvergne since 1978 and with Schrobenhausen in Bavaria, Germany, since 1992. Both towns are picturesque and full of character. Set on the side of a ravine by the river Durolle, Thiers is steeped in history with narrow winding streets, half-timbered houses and magnificent views towards distant volcanic mountains. By contrast, Schrobenhausen is set in a plain, an hour’s drive from Munich but it too has its share of history, encircled as it is by a 15th Century town wall and with many fine old buildings and churches. It is a famous asparagus producing area and boasts what must be the world’s only asparagus museum ! In Thiers, they have made paper and knives for over five hundred years and the cutler’s skills are evident in every shop window.

Schools: Older children from all three countries share in educational visits and we are now promoting contacts between junior schools.

Sport and hobbies: Links between sporting groups flourish eg. football, rugby, tennis, walking, Bridge and golf. Quilters from all three towns are working on a joint project.

The Arts: Dancers, musicians and singers regularly meet and share their special magic and we have displayed art and photographic exhibitions by local artists, in all three towns.

Trade and work experience: Bridgnorth produce is regularly sold in our twin towns and a demand for work experience opportunities has resulted in placements in local businesses.

International seminars: Civic representatives and officers learn from each other at meetings sharing European Commission policy of common interest eg water, waste management and recycling.

Visits: Regular group visits to our twin towns are organised, often benefiting from European subsidies.

We learn from each other and the seeds of real friendships between individuals and groups are sown and flourish....we also have a lot of fun!