Since 1972 Hastings has been twinned with Bethune in Northern France for organised homestays and reciprocal visits writes Michael Howard.

Bethune is a fascinating ex-mining town in the Pas de Calais region with a bell tower in the town square surrounded by beautiful architecture and lots of little shops and cafes.

This year the weekend trip is August 23rd to 25th. A coach will take members of all ages – including families – and will make a stop somewhere interesting on the other side of the channel, before being picked up by host members to spend the evening enjoying French hospitality.

With a Saturday coach trip during the day, a friendship meal together in the evening and time to explore on the Sunday you will have the chance to find out about the cultural differences and also our commonalities with our friends across the sea.

Many local people have made lasting friendships over the years and return year after year. Don’t worry if you don’t speak French as many of our hosts speak English and we have people who can translate.

The price for this year’s trip is £85 per adult and £65 per child, inclusive of coach travel, excursions and meals in France – a non-returnable deposit of £30 per person is required as soon as possible to book a place.

If you are interested in being part of this trip please ring Vivienne on 01424 732035 or email omobond@btinternet.com.