MEMBERS of Llanelli Ramblers have been celebrating their links with walkers from the town’s French twin town of Agen.
Elaine Jenkins, publicity officer for Llanelli Ramblers, explained –
“On July 1, 1989, Llanelli Town formally entered into a twinning link with the French town of Agen, situated between Toulouse and Bordeaux. The common denominator of the two towns was rugby.
“But, in 2005, another very close link was established between Llanelli Ramblers and their Agen counterparts – the Randonneurs.
“The walking groups act independently but within the framework of the twinning agreement, and the September meetings have evolved into a biennial pattern.
“Both groups have gained enormous pleasure walking together in the Pyrenees and Snowdonia, the coast of Cardigan Bay and The Med, as well as our lovely local counties.
“This September, we welcomed the Randonneurs to Llanelli for their sixth visit.”
The Diplomat Hotel was booked for their stay and a comprehensive programme of walks and visits was planned for the week.
Elaine added: “We started quite near with a visit to Llandeilo, noted for its sophisticated shopping and art galleries. Nominated drivers took the 11 visitors to the town. They were excited to start their holiday with a five-mile walk in what turned out to be glorious weather.
“They were delighted with Dinefwr Castle and Castle Woods and were suitably impressed with the beautiful Towy Valley. This was a wonderful start and already new friendships were being forged and old friendships rekindled.
“Day 2 was a trip to Laugharne. Here, we followed a figure-of-eight walk which featured many of poet Dylan Thomas’s haunts. The Birthday Walk, Brown’s Hotel – Dylan’s favourite drinking haunt – his writing shed and his last resting place in St Martin’s Church graveyard were visited. At the graveyard, the Ramblers gave a beautiful rendition of Eli Jenkins’s Prayer.
“On Monday there was a trip to Mumbles with a lovely five-mile ramble on the coastal path to Rotherslade Bay and Bracelet Bay. A climb to Oystermouth Castle for great views of Swansea Bay left our visitors in awe once again of the beauty we have on our doorstep.
“Back to the Diplomat and a quick change for the visitors before attending the Mayor’s reception. Here they were formally welcomed by the town dignitaries, speeches were made and gifts given followed by a delicious buffet.
“Tuesday meant an early start as the group were taken to experience the magic of Bannau Brycheiniog with a scenic ride on the historic Brecon Mountain Railway. The line runs from Pant, three miles North of Merthyr Tydfil and follows part of the route of the original Brecon and Merthyr Railway which closed in 1964.
“From Torpantau they were led back to the station via Pontsticyll and the Taf Fechan Reservoir – another memorable day.
“A coach trip had been planned for the following day and every seat was taken for the trip to St David’s, Britain’s smallest city – given the status because of the 12th century St David’s Cathedral which the group visited.
“They were also led to Porth Clais and back to St David’s. On the walk they admired the stunning Pembrokeshire coast – so rewarding on a beautiful sunny day.
“They stopped at The Fox and Hounds outside Carmarthen for a meal before returning to Llanelli after a wonderful day out.
“The weather had been kind all week but not so on their last day. The walk was around the Lliedi Reservoir in Swiss Valley. For much of the walk they were sheltered from the rain under the trees. Nevertheless, the planned outdoor picnic ended with a buffet in the Diplomat provided by the generosity of the Ramblers – many of whom are master cake-makers.
“In fact, the Randonneurs were very impressed with the hospitality extended to them in the form of car lifts, and treats every day.
“The day ended with a farewell dinner in the Diplomat preceded by an excellent concert featuring The Phil Harmonics – a superb local rock and pop ladies choir.
“The evening was a great success and all the leaders and back markers of the Welsh walks were duly thanked as were the members who had donated cakes, sweets and alcohol! Again, gifts were exchanged and the icing on the cake was an invitation back to Agen in two years’ time.
“It was poignant in that Mr Greison Thomas, assisted by Mrs Nina Clements, who had arranged these visits since 2005, formally resigned and handed over the baton to Mrs Eirwen Stephens, who has proved a worthy successor having overseen and planned this very successful visit alongside her loyal team.
“May these lasting friendships continue.”
Photos: Ramblers in Laugharne. Ramblers at civic reception at Llanelli Town Council’s offices at The Old Vicarage.
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