Twinned at last!

On 17 January, Steve and Tania Haines, Lorna Joy and Buckingham’s Mayor, Anja Schaefer, travelled from Luton to Milan for the signing of the Twinning Agreement between Buckingham and Valmadrera. Although snow greeted our arrival, the warm welcome at a late-night reception in Valmadrera quickly dispelled the cold.

Saturday dawned bright and sunny, and at 10am the formal signing ceremony took place at the new community space at Fatebenefratelli, marking the culmination of almost three years’ work. Speeches were given in both Italian and English, documents were signed, ornamental keys exchanged, and gifts of pictures of Buckingham and Stowe presented.

With the main road temporarily closed, we were able to take photographs by the new twinning signs at the town entrance. The day also included lunch at the Tennis Club, a visit to the church tower, and an evening meal with members of the Valmadrera Twinning Committee.

Sunday featured a visit to a local work cooperative, discussions about future plans, and a magnificent concert by Valmadrera’s wind band, bringing a memorable and inspiring weekend to a close.