Thanks to Sally Mcconkey for sharing news of this recent event in Sandown. In her own words. Ed
Once again the streets of Sandown echoed to the sound of French chatter and for a moment we wondered if Napoleon’s landing had in fact become a reality.
However, it soon proved to be the latest visit of the members of the Tonnay-Charente Twinning Association, enjoying the best that Sandown had to offer with their hosts from the town.
14th visit from twinning association
“This was the 14th visit to the town and 27th year of reciprocal visits, showing that although times are difficult for everyone, the roots of this group have gone deep and the association continues to flourish,” said Mr John Howell, chairman of the Sandown association.
“Twinning is one of the best ways for those wishing to learn a language, in this case French, to make rapid progress, by going to live with a selected family for a short or longer stay and having someone back to stay with them.” he added.
He went on to say, “We are particularly hopeful that this year will see e-mail contact between the newly formed Sandown Bay Academy and a similar school in Tonnay Charente, for it was, after all, an exchange between Sandown Fairway school and Pont d’Abbe that started the twinning over 30 years ago.
“In this respect we would particularly welcome the involvement of any pupils from the school learning French, to help in setting up our own website and bring us into the 21st century, to perhaps compliment work being done at the Academy.” Mr Howell said.
Five-day visit
Highlights of the five-day visit included a dinner with entertainment by a quartet from Wight Satin Ladies’ Barber Shop singers.
An outing on a vintage Southern Vectis bus with a stroll through Cowes, an enjoyable lunch at the Folly Inn, Whippingham and a tour of Quarr Abbey.
The finale in the Los Altos room of the Broadway Centre saw a tastebuds tempting array of desserts provided by hosts after a meal at home, followed by a fun-filled barn dance with a caller giving instructions in both French and English.
Get involved
We would welcome anyone who would like to improve their knowledge of the country or add to their language skills, at any of our social functions. Age is no barrier.
Call John 405621, Tim 400074 or try our website ( in the process of being updated ) at sandownfrenchtwinning.org.uk.
Please join us for a coffee/cakes open morning at SANDOWN LIBRARY (upstairs) for more information, Saturday 5th May 2012 at 10.00 a.m. to 12.30.
Displays, Photos, raffle, FREE cake and coffee/tea, information on trips, joining up, and much more.
