A delegation of councillors from the town of Coburg in Germany were recently taken on a tour of Newport to celebrate 40 years of friendship between Coburg and the Isle of Wight.
The tour began with a visit to Newport’s Museum of Island History, where visitors could explore a special exhibition on the history of Coburg as well as scenes of rural life on the Isle of Wight.
They were then taken on a historic walking tour of Newport by the Island Heritage Service, where they learnt about its successes as a market town. Councillors from both sides also enjoyed some sporting action as they participated in challenges set up by local athletes in the run up to the Island Games, taking place in Guernsey in three weeks’ time.
The walking tour ended with a much anticipated visit to Constable’s ‘The Cornfields’, on show at the new premises of the Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council on the high street.
Next, the visitors were taken to Branstone Farm, where they were given a tour of the business park, residential area, and the biosphere gardens, highlighting the Island’s work on its UNESCO biosphere status.
The visit ended with a tour of Goddards Brewery, showcasing the best of local produce and industry.
3D printed statuette of Prince Albert
During the visit, the Chairman of the council was presented with a 3D printed statuette of Prince Albert as a token of appreciation and friendship from the Coburg delegation.
Prince Albert, born in Coburg in 1819, was a regular visitor and thereafter resident at the Island’s Osborne House alongside his wife Queen Victoria and their children.
Critchison: I hope it is as strong in ten years’ time
Councillor Claire Critchison, Chair of Isle of Wight council said,
“It was a pleasure to host the Coburg visitors and celebrate this milestone anniversary.
“It is wonderful that the union has been kept going and I hope it is as strong in ten years’ time for the 50th anniversary.”
Jackson: Looking forward to a return trip in October
Peter Jackson, from IOW German Twinning Association said,
“IWGTA members are looking forward to a return trip in October when we shall celebrate the anniversary of our long-standing friendship in Coburg with councillors and members of the Coburg Town Twinning Association, who visited the Island earlier in May.”
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
