As in previous years, a dinner was held for the association. The French guests, together with members of DAFA, meant that 59 were at the celebration dinner at the Guildhall on Saturday, 21 May.

Dartmouth’s Mayor Richard Cooke and Courseulles’ Mayor, Frederick Pouille, were both at the dinner.

It is the tradition that the French guests are accommodated by members of DAFA but, in the past couple of years, the DAFA has appealed to the public to help and they have responded.

Courseulles-sur-Mer is a town on the Normandy coast. It is a popular tourist destination as many visit and tour the Normandy landing beaches. It obviously has great historical links with Dartmouth and the surrounding area.

President John Bowden and his wife Gillian hosted old friends, Joel and Danni Pestel, together with Francoise Bourgeon, a more recent member of the French twinning association.

Gillian said: “We have been to the weddings of both of Joel and Danni’s daughters. We have known them for a long-time.

“We will be going to Courseulles-sur-Mer in September for their 40th celebration.”

The secretary of the association, Wendy Rendle said: “We would love to see new members of the association. Our membership fee is only £10 a year.

“Getting to know our French counterparts, become part of their town, albeit briefly, is very rewarding. The friendships created can, and have, lasted a long, time.

“With Brexit beginning, our association is a great way for young and old to ensure we don’t lose touch with our close European neighbours.

“Each year, they come here in May and we go there in September. We are, however, considering exchanging on alternate years from 2018.

“If you are interested in finding out more about the DAFA, you can contact me on 832435 or send me an email to [email protected].”