THE Weymouth and Portland Louviers Society greeted visitors from its French twin town at a special reception.

The event, which takes place during the annual visit to Weymouth, was held in the Ocean Room at the Pavilion Theatre and saw the presidents of the societies from both sides of the water, the Mayor of Weymouth and Portland, Joy Stanley and the Mayor of Louviers, Franck Martin, exchange gifts.

A framed painting of Louviers artist, Demarly, was presented to Mrs Stanley and in return Mr Martin was presented with a copy of author Maureen Attwooll's book, entitled Weymouth - The Golden Years.

Mr Martin addressed the twinning society members and spoke of the warm welcome he and his delegation had received in Weymouth.

He said: "The idea of twinning is to bring people together and to be able to discuss together."

More than 100 people including members of the society, council officials and the hosts, who provided accommodation for the French visitors, enjoyed light refreshments and chatting with new and old acquaintances. In August, members of the society in Weymouth will travel to Louviers as guests of the French.

Mrs Stanley praised the strong ties binding the twin-towns and the 52 society members who travelled from Louviers. She said: "The society members from Louviers enjoyed their stay in Weymouth. It was great to see old and new faces at the reception."