Two coaches, carrying 102 passengers from Ashford's twin town, Bad Münstereifel, were welcomed by the Mayor, Councillor Geraldine Dyer and her Escort, on Monday 25th April. The coach party consisted of 96 students and 6 staff from a regional school called Stadtische Realschule.

The school has a 15-year-old tradition of coming to Ashford, passing on the idea of twinning to the new generation.

During their visit, they took part in lessons and a sports day at The North School, visited Dover Castle, the Secret Wartime Tunnels and Canterbury Cathedral.

Previously they have visited the Hitachi high-speed train depot and did so again this time, although unfortunately, only 25 of the 96 students, 1 teacher, along with Gillian Lines, Shirley and Cyril Bishop, Mike Elvy and Sue and John Rowland from our association were allowed into the depot for the tour, due to security reasons, with the remainder taking part in a spot of retail therapy at the McArthur Glen Outlet, considerably increasing the turnover there

The students as always had an enjoyable time.