A special visit to Middlesbrough Town Hall marked a golden milestone in Anglo-German relations.
Middlesbrough’s special relationship with its German twin Oberhausen began more than 50 years ago, with the partnership formally joined in 1974.
Ties between the two towns began with youth exchanges, the first of which was held in 1950.
The Middlesbrough-Oberhausen Town Twinning (MOTT) was subsequently set up to promote and foster friendships and understanding.
Annual exchanges – on hold since 2019 due to the Covid-19 pandemic – resumed this year with a visit to Middlesbrough by a German group and a reception at Middlesbrough Town Hall hosted by Deputy Mayor Cllr Philippa Storey.
MOTT Chairman Shirley Alexander, who organised this year’s week-long visit taking in local sights and landmarks including the Transporter Bridge, Whitby and York, said: “After the disruption of the pandemic it has been lovely to host a group from Oberhausen again.
“It was great to welcome them to the Town Hall and they greatly enjoyed taking in the sights in and around Middlesbrough.
“We’re committed to keeping these exchanges going, so we’re always on the look-out for new members to take us to our 50th anniversary and beyond.”
The group, led by Sabine Guerts, also presented a cheque for £150 to local charity Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice.
Zoe’s Place Community Fundraiser Rachael Bareham who accepted the donation said: “We’re always thrilled when members of the community raise funds for us, but the significance of our hospice being known in other countries is fantastic.
“Huge thanks to everyone involved.”
Middlesbrough Deputy Mayor Philippa Storey said: “Our twinning relationship with Oberhausen really has stood the test of time.
“I’m delighted to be able to welcome the latest visitors to Middlesbrough, and I have no doubt these exchanges will still be taking place in another fifty years.
“The donation to a local charity is also a fantastic gesture, and I know it will make a real difference.”
For more information on MOTT and to join the group, email Chairman Shirley Alexander at shirley.alexander42@yahoo.co.uk