Square de Thame !
Four years ago, the area in front of the old Market House in Thame was named 'Montesson Square' to honour the friendship between the two towns, and now, in a new part of Montesson called 'Les Terres Blanches' there is a new green amenity area called 'Square de Thame,' officially opened by the Thame Mayor, Don Butler. As well as a name plate, another sign declares that it is 495 kilometers to Thame! Speaking at the naming ceremony on Friday evening, the Mayor of Montesson, Jean-François Bel, said: "The decision to write the name of Thame on our territory, is a symbol of the mutual friendship which has been formed between our two towns, as well as evidence of a successful twinning."
The two Mayors, Don Butler and Jean-François Bel share a joke.
As always, the Thame visitors received the very best of French hospitality in the homes of Montesson families, and a very full programme of events, including a trip to the historic cathedral of Chartres, a firework display in Montesson's sports stadium and the highlight of the weekend, a reception and lunch in the Parc des Sophoras, where the guests included visitors from Montesson's German twin town, Baesweiler. Major Robert Bartlett, representing Thame & District branch of the Royal British Legion, travelled to Montesson to present a commemorative shield to André Michel, the President of Montesson's counterpart Association, the Association des Anciens Combattants, which read "Service not self."
From left: Robert Bartlett making his presentation to André Michel, Didier Breuzet chats to André and his partner Wanda.
The only mishap of the weekend was when the coach ran out of petrol Yes, I repeat, ran out of petrol on the French motorway. Once the gendarmes had arrived we had to dismount but thankfully it was a lovely day. We got back to Thame at midnight. Tired, but very happy.
I see no petrol, says Angela while the gendarme waits for assistance.