Entente-cordiale is alive and kicking in the Dereham and Caudebec Twinning Association.The association, which has been operating for seven years, has announced plans for an expansion of its activities aimed at offering greater opportunities for involvement by individuals and organisations across the town.

Entente-cordiale is alive and kicking in the Dereham and Caudebec Twinning Association.

The association, which has been operating for seven years, has announced plans for an expansion of its activities aimed at offering greater opportunities for involvement by individuals and organisations across the town.

The revitalisation of the association was unveiled at its annual meeting attended by Dereham residents, including the town's mayor Ann Bowyer, herself an active supporter and committee member.

Plans for developing stronger links with the town in Normandy include holding a monthly meeting for members and guests, exchange visits by individuals, town societies and school groups and group visits to one or more of the annual community events in Caudebec each year.

Newly-appointed chairman, Jim Stebbings, said an expanded committee and a revised membership scheme would enable more of the public to become involved. A visit is planned to the town's Christmas market in November and it is hoped many new members will be in the party.

'We aim to provide opportunities for people of all ages and interests to be more involved. It is not necessary to have any knowledge of the French language - just an interest in sharing the cultures of the two countries and towns,' said Mr Stebbings.

Mr Stebbings also paid tribute to retiring founder chairman Alan West. He is to remain on the committee to forge links between the towns for groups with special needs.

The meeting also approved the appointment of former Dereham town mayor, June Barnes, as an association life member in recognition of the leading role she has played in forging twinning links with Caudebec during the past seven years.

The next members' meeting will be a quiz with a French flavour at the Kings Head Hotel, Dereham, on March 18.

No French language skills are required and teams of up to four people are needed.

Anyone wishing to take part in the quiz or find out more about becoming an official member of the association is asked to contact Brigitte Morton on 01362 696758.