Viewing the weather forecast with some trepidation, members of the Holsworthy Twinning Association (Le Jumelage) looked forward to the arrival of their French counterparts from Aunay sur Odon in Normandy recently.

They need not have feared, since the day of the trip to Plymouth on the Friday was dry and sunny. The French and English coaches arrived together at the Mayflower steps and the twinners had three hours to sightsee and lunch. In fact, one large enterprising group, in French style, got together for a communal lunch at Rockey's on the Barbican.

At 2:30pm, all boarded a river cruiser for a trip up the River Tamar. The captain gave an English commentary and paid particular attention to the sea front berths of nuclear sub Conqueror (which sank the Belgrano) and the ship HMS Monmouth which is the only one allowed to display a black flag (attributed to the Monmouth rebellion in 1685, Judge Jeffreys and all that, and James II ordering Monmouth's beheading).

Soon to be seen was a statue of William of Orange who turned England back to Protestantism (if only Monmouth had waited three years!) William also did the Plymouth Gin Company a good turn by liberalising the laws on the production of alcohol; perhaps too good a turn since the national production of gin went mad and you could get drunk for 1d and dead drunk for 2d!

They passed through the sea gap into the River Tamar, beautiful country and a lone seal spotted. Highlights were Cothele and the village of Calstock, where they left the boat to see picturesque cottages and shops, which seemed to take them back in time.

The return journey was much appreciated by the French as the interpreter, Adam Hilton gave an off the cuff commentary. The bus journey was highlighted by one of those little cameos that always crop up when the French are with visiting. Two little French girls with digital cameras had spotted a hot air balloon (une montgolfiere) as the coach approached Launceston. There was frantic passing of cameras from side to side since the coach's zigzagging caused the balloon to cross just before the click of buttons. In the end, after much mirth, good shots were secured.

Saturday evening brought their get together and dance at Chilsworthy Village Hall. Phil Glessing, Holsworthy's chairman, thanked the committee and members for their magnificent contributions of buffet food. He also thanked Chilsworthy volunteers for their exceptional assistance in setting up the hall. The French reply was given by Pierre Cool, now retired, who echoed the thanks. He also commented on the unusually good English weather that had graced the visit. The French were so unused to it!

At the end of the visit, some of the new twinners were exhausted. Three days of concentrated Franglais had been an eye-opener but worth it. The French who were new to the scene gave an equivalent response, touching their heads and saying 'C'est dure' (hard graft). Soon, the difficulties will be forgotten and they will be looking forward to the return trip next year.