Although the two days were interspersed with social events, the main purpose of the visit was to attend two Ceremonial Events, commemorating the end ofthe Second World War.
The first event held was held in the Public Garden ( very similar to Poole Park ) It was were formal, very moving and enabled recognition of the occasion with floral tributes. Many Cherbourgoise attended, both young and old – with National Anthems played and banners lowered.
The second event was to honour the loss of West African and Equatorial troops. The Aiguillons Cemetery also has Commonwealth graves and the Mayor invited the Cherbourg Mayor to pay tribute to those British troops who were lost during the war and liberation of Cherbourg.
During the social gatherings gifts were presented to the Delegation Representatives:
Poole flags, Poole Harbour Commisioner’s 2025 HandbooksSunseeker Brochures, Lush items – to emphasise ‘Made in Poole’, copies of the Poole – Cherbourg Charter and Poole Twinning pin badges.
These gatherings gave the Poole delegation an opportunity to meet with Cherbourg colleagues – old and new – and as a result it was felt that ‘entente cordiale’ was maintained between our two towns.
Links were proposed between Poole Parks and Gardens, re-establishment of links between Poole Harbour Canoe Club with an invitation to their annual event in Hamworthy Park 20-21 st September 2025 and a possible invitation to Amicale Cycliste, Cherbourg, for the Beating of the ( Land ) Bounds Spring Bank Holiday 3-4th May 2026.
It has been difficult to re-establish our pre- pandemic links as our French visitors have to be in possession of a Passport and Visa (not required pre Brexit ) an expense not too popular for a day or two day visit.
