Montigny visit to Foxton 2026

Foxton Twinning Weekend

On Friday 8th May we welcomed our guests from Montigny for the latest
exchange visit between our two villages. We gathered at the Village Hall early evening for welcome drinks and canapés, to catch up with old friends and greet new visitors.

Peter Howell (Chair of the Twinning Committee) set the tone for the weekend in his welcoming words, promising events “the like of which have never before been seen” and commented how the buzz of conversation grows louder with each visit.

Teachers from Foxton Primary School were there to hand over a batch of letters from the children as the start of an exchange of correspondence with L’école Primaire in Montigny.

On a lovely sunny Saturday morning we met at Saffron Walden and split into groups (each with a French speaker) to follow the Town Trail. Everyone was impressed with the many historic buildings, interesting features and mazes.

In the afternoon, hosts entertained their guests in various ways, such as enjoying a 1647 Civil War re-enactment in Saffron Walden, or visiting nearby stately homes.

We gathered again at the Village Hall in the evening for the main social event. By popular request of the Montignais, our meal was the traditional fish and chips from Ocean Tree.

This was followed by entertainment from the Foxton Singers, singing in both French and English. Philip (musical director) encouraged the audience to join in, which they did with gusto.

We then had a break with a choice of delicious desserts. The final part of the evening was an Irish band providing music for enthusiastic dancing. The members of the band were amazed at their leader’s ability to do the calling in both French and English!

Sunday was, alas, much colder – a free day for hosts to entertain guests as they wished. Activities chosen included attractions in and around Cambridge of all types – from a special morning service at King’s College Chapel, to the Harry Potter shop!

Sadly, some families had to leave in the afternoon, but those remaining were treated to a Cream Tea at the Village Hall.

A great many thanks go to all those involved in different ways: organising, setting up and decorating the hall, supplying food and drink, hosting, providing entertainment, as well as those doing all the clearing up. These all contributed to create a splendid weekend for our guests.