Twinning will add to ‘beautiful friendship’

Stonehaven: Ties with suburb of Paris to be formally agreed in May

A move to twin Stonehaven with a suburb of Paris and strengthen a “beautiful friendship” between Scotland and France will be formally agreed in May.

North East Conservative region MSP Liam Kerr has spoken in favour of moves to twin the Mearns with Acheres.

The May agreement will be the culmination of 18 months’ work by Stonehaven and District Community Council.

Mr Kerr believes the educational, sporting and business benefits are plain to see and has asked the Scottish Parliament to support the scheme with a Holyrood motion, also highlighting the work of Stonehaven Business Association, Mackie Academy, Dunnottar Primary School, Visit Scotland and local sporting clubs and landowners in the organisation.

“Stonehaven is one of the north east’s jewels in the crown,” he said.

“Even on an overcast day there is much to see and do, and its coastal location is widely sought after as soon as the sun emerges.

“No matter the weather, people come from all over the country to use the famous outdoor pool.

“Add in award-winning food and drink outlets, and I can see why its merits should help the French make an easy choice to visit.”

“

As a French speaker and Francophile, I can’t wait to welcome our first official visitors. MSP LIAM KERR

He adds: “As a French speaker and Francophile, I can’t wait to welcome our first official visitors.”

Mr Kerr’s motion has been supported by 19 of his Scottish Conservative colleagues.

The motion says that the Parliament:

Commends the work of Stonehaven and District Community Council on securing a twin town with Acheres, a suburb of Paris;

Understands an agreement to officially recognise the twinning will be signed during the Fete De La Pentecote on May 20 in the Place De L’église, Acheres town square, when a delegation from Stonehaven will travel to the town;

Recognises that the ceremony will mark the culmination of 18 months of hard work when community council chairman Phil Mills-bishop signs a concordat with Marc Honore, mayor of Acheres;

Notes the twinning and concordat signing will conclude when Marc Honore and a French delegation visit Dunnottar Castle at Stonehaven, between July 7 and 8;

Acknowledges that, following the signing ceremonies, a steering group will be formed to arrange events and progress the relationship;

Recognises what it sees as tremendous support from Stonehaven Business Association, Mackie Academy, Dunnottar Primary School, Visit Scotland and local sporting clubs and landowners;

Understands funding will now be sought for around six suitable commemorative plaques, based on Stonehaven’s coat of arms, to be placed at various locations;

And wishes the partnership every success for the future.

gstrachan@thecourier.co.uk

Acheres, a suburb of Paris, is to be formally twinned with Stonehaven.