NEXT year marks the 20th anniversary of a special connection between Peebles and a southern French town.

And members of the Peebles - Hendaye Twinning Association are looking for ideas to celebrate the two decades.

Hendaye lies on the French side of the border with Spain, on the western end of the Pyrenean mountains. 

Secretary Bruce Macalister told the Peeblesshire News: “Since being twinned, we have been able to promote exchanges of cultural, educational, sporting and business interests between our two communities. 

“Over the period there have been numerous such exchanges, ranging from mutual visits by school students, visiting choirs, dance groups and junior football and rugby players from the Basque Country, plus trips to Hendaye by members of Peebles Silver Band, Peebles Pipe Band and players from Peebles Rugby Club. 

“There are no specific events on the table for the 2018/2019 celebrations as yet, but we hope to have a programme of events, possibly over several months. 

“These events may hopefully include both visits to Peebles from Hendaye, plus participants from Peebles going there on an exchange basis. We hope to involve Pipe Bands, Silver Bands and local choirs and possibly timing a visit by the Mayor of Hendaye to Peebles for the 2018 Beltane Festival.

“The committee welcomes any ideas and suggestions to help celebrate this anniversary.”

In February 1998, the Town Twinning Charter between Peebles and Hendaye was signed in Peebles Burgh Hall and ratified in Hendaye in April 1999.

The Peebles – Hendaye Twinning Association AGM will be held in the Burgh Chambers at 7.30pm on Wednesday, June 14 where suggestions can be made.

For further information contact the secretary, Bruce Macalister on 01896 870620, or email brucemacalister@hotmail.com.