VISITORS from Royston s German twin town of Grossalmerode enjoyed an activity-packed visit to the town. Claire Davies, from the Royston and District Twinning Association, who organised the visit, said: We had 29 people come over from Grossalmerode this y

VISITORS from Royston's German twin town of Grossalmerode enjoyed an activity-packed visit to the town.

Claire Davies, from the Royston and District Twinning Association, who organised the visit, said: "We had 29 people come over from Grossalmerode this year.

"The exchange has been happening for 35 years, and some of the first 'twinners' are still coming."

After taking a trip to St Albans for a tour of the Abbey and the Roman ruins, the party from Grossalmerode played a full part in the harvest festival celebrations at Royston parish church.

"Many of the group came to the parish church's harvest supper, which is the type of event which does not take place in Grossalmerode," said Claire.

"They all had a great time, and provided some of the entertainment, even if no one could walk the next day after we had done the actions to Pfarrer Gottfried Heinzmann's song!"

There was also a civic reception, hosted by mayor of Royston, Cllr Paul Grimes, while another highlight of the weekend was a river cruise and buffet lunch on the Norfolk Broads, which was partly funded by a Community Chest award from Royston Town Council.

Grossalmerode is a small town in central Germany, with a population of just over 7,000.

Claire said that a party from Royston would be making a return visit to Germany next summer.

She added: "Also next May we will be hosting a visit from our French twin town, La Loupe.

"The friendships and activities promise to be just as exciting.