A TWINNING society celebrated a milestone anniversary by inviting their counterparts for a weekend of celebrations.

Maldon Twinning Association celebrated 50 years of their link with Cuijk in the Netherlands.

They invited their Dutch neighbours and played host to them in the town.

The VIP guests arrived at the Museum of Power in Langford, where visitors were greeted with refreshments donated by Maldon’s Tesco.

Twinning chairman Jill Hipsey greeted them before they enjoyed a tour of the museum.

The next day, everyone gathered at Maldon Town Hall where Maldon mayor Flo Shaughnessy, Cuijk mayor Wim Hillenaar and the towns’ chairmen gave speeches.

Visits were also made to the refurbished Twinning Link sculpture and the Friary Walled Garden, where a tree from Cuijk had been received and planted several years ago.

The anniversary weekend included dinner at Forrester Park Golf Club, Morris dancing, music performances, lessons in croquet and a special commemorative cake and gift exchanges.

An association spokesman said: “On a personal reflection of our 50th anniversary celebrations, we felt it went extremely well.

“We have had positive reports from other members of the association along with great reviews from our Dutch guests.

“To put on such a memorable weekend we have delved deep in our funds, helped by a considerable grant from Maldon Town Council and a generous donation from Cuijk.

“It was lovely because the Dutch are not used to dressing up.

“When we had our dinner at the golf club, they were first up to dance. From start to finish, it was absolutely fantastic.”

The association will be holding a fundraising summer barbecue tomorrow from 4.30pm in Highlands Drive.

The association is also looking for more members to join the 43 current members.

Membership is £10 a year, which goes towards meals and trips. Call Linda Anthony on 01621 855035.